Indian cricketer Jasprit Bumrah and his wife, Sanjana Ganesan, have had a newborn boy, the fast bowler confirmed on social media.
Despite being a key member of India's squad for the Asia Cup 2023, Bumrah made the heartbreaking decision to return home for the birth of his child, taking a brief break from the team.
Unfortunately, he will not be playing in the forthcoming encounter against Nepal.
Bumrah shared the news of their increasing family on social media, saying, "Our little family has grown & our hearts are fuller than we could ever imagine!"
We welcomed our son, Angad, into the world this morning. "We are overjoyed and can't wait for everything this new chapter of our lives brings - Jasprit and Sanjana," he tweeted.
His letter was accompanied by an image of the baby's small hand, symbolizing the wonderful event.
The question now is who will replace Bumrah in India's playing XI for the Asia Cup match against Nepal.
Although Mohammed Shami is the most likely candidate to return, Prasidh Krishna may also be given a chance. Aside from this replacement, the Indian team is expected to stick with its present composition.
Bumrah is expected to return to the team before India's Super Four encounter on September 10. Notably, India must defeat Nepal in order to move to the next round.
However, the weather is expected to have a big impact on the game's outcome.
Bumrah's absence from bowling was also noticeable in the Pakistan encounter, as he continues to miss ODIs after a lengthy period of injury recovery.
A win over Nepal, or even a possible match washout, will pave the way for another tense clash between traditional rivals India and Pakistan on September 10.
The cricketing world is waiting for Bumrah's significant presence on the field to return as he balances his athletic duties and newfound fatherhood.
