Mohammed Shami Returns After 14-Month Hiatus
Mohammed Shami is back in India’s T20I squad after a long 14-month break. The seasoned pacer, known for his upright seam and pinpoint accuracy, has been selected for the five-match T20I series against England starting January 22.
Shami’s return is a significant boost for India, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy on the horizon. The tournament runs from February 19 to March 9, and an injury-free Shami could be crucial for India’s campaign.
Injury Struggles Behind Shami’s Absence
Shami’s journey back to the national side hasn’t been easy. His last appearance for India was during the 2023 World Cup final, where he emerged as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 24 scalps in seven matches. However, he battled multiple injuries, including a chronic heel issue that required surgery in early 2024.
The injury kept him out of the IPL and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. During that series, Jasprit Bumrah carried the bowling attack but lacked support. Shami’s absence was felt, especially as Bumrah suffered back spasms during the Sydney Test.
After months of rehab and recovery, Shami returned to domestic cricket, representing Bengal in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. His performances impressed the selectors, and he was finally declared fit by BCCI’s medical team.
Ravi Shastri Criticizes Shami’s Rehab Process
Former India coach Ravi Shastri wasn’t pleased with how Shami’s injury was managed. Speaking on the ICC podcast, Shastri said, “A player of his ability should have been part of the team in Australia. His rehab could have been done with the team, and if he wasn’t fit to play, then he could have been sent back.”
Shastri’s comments reflect the importance of having experienced bowlers like Shami in crucial overseas tours.
New Faces in India’s T20I Squad
The T20I squad for the England series, led by Suryakumar Yadav, includes some fresh faces. Nitish Reddy has been added as an all-rounder, while Dhruv Jurel replaces Jitesh Sharma as the second wicketkeeper.
Sanju Samson, who scored two centuries in the T20 series against South Africa, remains the first-choice wicketkeeper-batsman. His explosive partnership with Abhishek Sharma will be key for India in the T20Is.
Axar Patel has been named vice-captain, highlighting his growing importance in white-ball cricket. With Ravindra Jadeja nearing the twilight of his career, Axar’s rise as a spin-bowling all-rounder is noteworthy.
Bumrah’s Fitness Under Watch
While Shami’s return is confirmed, another crucial player, Jasprit Bumrah, remains a concern. Bumrah, who underwent major back surgery in 2023, is yet to make a full recovery.
The selectors are waiting to see how Bumrah’s body responds to bowling workloads before confirming his spot for the Champions Trophy.
According to a board source, “Bumrah may be included in the provisional squad, but his participation will depend on his fitness. His all-format workload is a big factor in the decision.”
Champions Trophy Squad Taking Shape
India’s Champions Trophy squad is gradually taking shape. The selectors are likely to include Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant for the ODI series against England. Both players are in line for Champions Trophy selection.
With Mohammed Shami back in the fold, and Bumrah’s fitness under watch, India’s fast-bowling unit is starting to come together.
The Champions Trophy, a marquee event in white-ball cricket, will be a major test for India. Shami’s experience and fitness will play a crucial role in the team’s performance in the tournament.
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