Jasprit Bumrah is back in action, diving into full-scale net practice as India gears up for the ODI series against England and the Test tour of Sri Lanka. After playing a pivotal role in India's T20 World Cup victory earlier this year, the fast bowler is now setting his sights on the longer formats of the game. In the nets, Bumrah is unleashing his full pace with a complete run-up, honing his yorkers, bouncers, and precision for both white-ball and red-ball cricket. The team management and medical staff are keeping a close eye on his workload. He was given a break during the Afghanistan series due to a minor niggle he picked up during the T20 World Cup, and this time off was strategically planned to ensure he fully recovers and stays fit for a packed international season ahead.

Bumrah's return marks the end of his 946-day absence from ODI cricket, with his previous appearance in the format coming in the 2023 World Cup final. He is also set to lead India's pace attack during the Test series in Sri Lanka. His comeback strengthens the bowling unit with experience, control, and wicket-taking ability. India will first play three ODIs in England before beginning a two-match Test series in Sri Lanka as part of the ICC World Test Championship cycle.

India Menā€™s 2026 Cricket Schedule: July to December

India's international calendar remains packed from July onwards. The England tour begins with a white-ball campaign, including three ODIs on July 14, 16, and 19 at Birmingham, Cardiff, and Lord's. The final ODI at Lord's is expected to be one of the biggest matches of the tour. After England, India will travel to Sri Lanka for a two-Test series during August and September. The matches are part of the ICC World Test Championship, giving India an important chance to improve its position after a difficult Test season in 2025, when the team managed only four wins in ten matches and lost the home series 0-2 against South Africa.

Meanwhile, cricket will return to the 2026 Asian Games in Japan from September 19 to October 4. The men's T20 competition will feature ten teams, and India will aim to defend the gold medal won in 2023. The squad is yet to be announced. Next, India will tour New Zealand for two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is. The Test matches will also count towards the World Test Championship, making the away series highly significant. Finally, India will finish the year by hosting Sri Lanka in December for three ODIs and three T20Is. The home series will help the team continue building combinations for the 2027 ODI World Cup while concluding a demanding cricket calendar.