Mohammed Shami, India’s seasoned pacer, is under the spotlight as fans and team management eagerly await updates on his availability for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Despite his impressive domestic performances, uncertainties surround his return due to fitness concerns. Here’s the latest update.
Shami’s Fitness Journey and Challenges
Surgery and Recovery
- Shami underwent ankle surgery earlier this year and faced an unfortunate knee injury during recovery.
- This delayed his return to international cricket, though he has worked hard to regain his form.
Domestic Comeback
- Ranji Trophy 2024 -2025: Representing Bengal, Shami picked up 7 wickets in a single four-day match.
- Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024 – 2025: In the T20 format, Shami shone with 8 wickets in 7 matches at an economy of 7.67, showcasing his fitness and form.
NCA’s Role in Shami’s Return
- The National Cricket Academy (NCA) has yet to give Shami the green light for Test cricket.
- A special team including national selector Shib Sundar Das, Nitin Patel (Sports Science head), and Nishanta Bardule (S&C trainer) has closely monitored his fitness.
Observations by the NCA
- Shami’s ability to endure Test match rigors remains under scrutiny despite his domestic performances.
- The final fitness clearance from the NCA is pending, delaying his potential travel to Australia.
Read Also:- Mohammed Shami’s Strong Reply to Sanjay Manjrekar
Indian Team’s Preparations
Visa and Kit Ready
- Reports confirm that Shami’s visa and kit are prepared, signaling the team’s readiness to welcome him.
- However, clearance from the NCA is mandatory before he can board a flight to Australia.
India’s Struggling Pace Attack
- In Shami’s absence, India’s pace attack has struggled, with only Jasprit Bumrah consistently delivering.
- Backups like Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy lack the discipline and venom needed for Tests.
What Experts Are Saying
Ravi Shastri’s Take
Former coach Ravi Shastri emphasized the urgency of Shami’s inclusion:
“The quicker he (Shami) reaches here, the better.”
BCCI Official’s Statement
“We are waiting for the NCA’s fitness clearance report. His kit is ready; once approved, he can join the squad.”
🚨Mohammed Shami is unlikely to fly to Australia anytime soon. Indications are that he has not yet received fitness clearance from the BCCI @vijaymirror with the latest: https://t.co/fRj05taQ10 pic.twitter.com/cPnfBwYZ7L
— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) December 7, 2024
Chances of Shami Joining the Squad
| Test Match | Date | Shami’s Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Brisbane Test | December 14, 2024 | Unlikely due to fitness clearance delay. |
| Boxing Day Test | December 26, 2024 | Possible if NCA clears him. |
| Sydney Test | January 2025 | Likely if fitness permits. |
While Mohammed Shami’s return remains uncertain, his presence could provide a significant boost to India’s struggling pace attack. Fans and the team management are hopeful that he can join the squad for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, subject to NCA’s final approval.
Stay tuned for further updates on Shami’s fitness and India’s preparations for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy!
