Jasprit Bumrah returned to international cricket after 11 months with two wickets in his first over in the T20I against Ireland, and Indian fans couldn’t be happier.

Bumrah was affected by a back injury during the ODIs against England in 2022, and last played any professional game in September. An attempt at making a comeback in January failed after he experienced back stiffness in the nets, following which he underwent surgery earlier this year.

Bumrah is now fit and is leading the India T20I team against Ireland, starting on Friday (August 18). The tour presents an opportunity to gauge his fitness levels and bowling rhythm ahead of a hectic schedule, starting with the Asia Cup in a fortnight, and ending with the World Cup in India.

Bumrah, who admits to feeling relieved and refreshed as he makes a comeback, did not send down the most memorable first ball, which was dispatched away for four by Andy Balbirnie. However, the quick bounced back immediately with a swinging ball that came back in ferociously to dismantle his stumps. Bumrah picked up another wicket three balls later, sending back Loran Tucker to end the over with figures of 2-4.

His return sent Indian fans into a tizzy as they saw their star bowler back in full flow.

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