BCCI May Delay Shami’s Return for Australia Series Comeback
Mohammed Shami is currently recovering from an ankle injury he sustained during the 2023 ODI World Cup. One of India’s top fast bowlers, Shami last played in the tournament, where he was crucial to India’s run to the final. Despite the team’s disappointing loss in the final, Shami’s World Cup ended on a sour note as he injured his ankle, leading to surgery in February.
Since then, the 33-year-old pacer has been on a lengthy and careful recovery process, with the Indian team management focused on ensuring his fitness for upcoming challenges.
Shami’s Rehabilitation at NCA Making Steady Progress
Mohammed Shami’s rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru is progressing steadily, showing positive signs. However, the Indian team management is exercising caution, fully aware of the critical role Shami will play in the upcoming Test series against Australia later this year.
According to the Indian Express, there is no immediate rush to reintegrate Shami into the national team. After undergoing surgery six months ago, the pacer has recently resumed bowling at the NCA. The current focus is on a gradual increase in his workload to ensure he is fully prepared for the demands of Test cricket.
Shami's Return Timeline Adjusted: Likely to Miss Bangladesh Series
Although there was initial optimism about Mohammed Shami featuring in the upcoming Bangladesh series, selectors have opted to prioritize his long-term fitness. Consequently, it appears unlikely that Shami will be part of the squad for India’s home season opener next month. He is now expected to target the Ranji Trophy opener on October 11 as a potential comeback date.
This timing could pave the way for his inclusion in the Indian squad for the home Test series against New Zealand, with a possible appearance in the second or third Test. Alternatively, the team management is considering sending him with the India A team for two four-day fixtures in Australia, starting on October 31 and November 7, to provide him with crucial match practice before the Test series
Shami’s Careful Return Mirrors Bumrah’s Comeback Strategy
The cautious approach to Mohammed Shami’s return reflects the strategy used for Jasprit Bumrah, who was similarly managed to prevent further injury. Bumrah rejoined the Indian team with the T20I series against Ireland, captaining the side, and was gradually reintegrated into the ODI team before making his Test return.
The Indian team management is keen to apply the same careful strategy to Shami, ensuring he is in top condition for the challenging Australia tour. Shami’s experience and skill will be crucial as India aims for a hat-trick of Test series wins on Australian soil, with five Tests scheduled Down Under.
Conclusion
As Shami progresses through his rehabilitation, the focus remains on balancing his return to competitive cricket with the need for complete recovery. The strategy includes potential participation in the Ranji Trophy opener or with the India A team in Australia, providing him with essential match practice. By meticulously managing his comeback, the team hopes to leverage Shami’s experience and skill for a successful series against Australia, reinforcing their quest for a historic hat-trick of Test victories on Australian soil.
the Indian team management is taking a measured approach to Mohammed Shami’s return, mirroring the successful strategy used for Jasprit Bumrah. By prioritizing Shami’s long-term fitness and gradually increasing his workload, they aim to ensure he is in peak condition for the demanding Test series against Australia. This careful planning reflects their commitment to maintaining the team’s strength and achieving continued success on the international stage.