Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been sidelined from October’s Test series against South Africa due to a back injury.

‘Bumrah has sustained a minor stress fracture in his lower back and has been ruled out of the upcoming Gandhi-Mandela Trophy against South Africa,’ reads a statement from the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

‘The injury was detected during a routine radiological screening. He will now undergo rehabilitation at National Cricket Academy and will be monitored by the medical team.’

Fellow right-armer Umesh Yadav has replaced Bumrah in the squad for the series opener.

The 25-year-old Bumrah currently occupies first position in the International Cricket Council’s rankings for Test bowlers and recently downplayed flattery from Proteas star Kagiso Rabada.

Rabada applauded the success of Bumrah, but reminded fans and critics alike to be mindful of the ups and downs of international cricket.

‘I don’t look at all these things. I don’t focus on individuals. For me, the team’s success is important. I look forward to what I can do and what contribution I can make in the team’s success,’ he said at the time.

‘I am looking forward to it. The preparations have already started. A lot of thought process goes behind this. A lot of preparation goes on.’

Visakhapatnam, Pune and Ranchi will host the first, second and third Test, respectively.

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