Kolkata: Mohammed Shami’s highly anticipated return to the Indian team has been further delayed, as the veteran pacer was excluded from India’s playing XI for the first T20I against England. This has fueled speculation regarding his fitness, despite the bowler being seen at the nets just hours before the match.
Shami, 34, was seen bowling for almost half an hour in the side nets, targeting the stumps with full intensity, even as Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav announced the playing XI and chose to bowl first, omitting Shami. Though there is noticeable strapping on his left knee, Shami appeared to bowl without significant discomfort, but concerns over persistent swelling in his knee after rigorous sessions remain.
While no major doubts about his fitness were expressed by Suryakumar during a pre-match briefing, the skipper did acknowledge Shami’s readiness. “It’s always great to have an experienced bowler, and Shami’s comeback after over a year is exciting. I’ve seen his dedication to recovery and bowling at the NCA. It’s wonderful to see him fit again,” Suryakumar said.
Shami, meanwhile, has spoken about his determination to return to the field, emphasizing his commitment to proving his fitness. He has participated in all three domestic formats for Bengal—starting with the Ranji Trophy, moving to the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20s, and finishing with the Vijay Hazare Trophy. “The hunger to play for the country should never end. No matter how many injuries, the love for the game keeps pushing me,” Shami stated at a Cricket Association of Bengal event.
Shami’s fitness journey has been closely followed, particularly after his injury-induced break. His last appearance for India was in the World Cup final against Australia in November 2023, after which a surgery and knee issues delayed his return. However, Shami’s performances in domestic cricket, especially his seven-wicket haul in the Ranji Trophy, have shown his readiness to return to competitive cricket.
Bowling coach Morne Morkel and strength coaches have closely monitored Shami’s progress. His practice sessions have been intense, with a combination of long spells in the nets and specific focus on length bowling. Despite the strapping on his knee, Shami did not require physio treatment and bowled without apparent discomfort.
The veteran pacer’s fitness is crucial for India’s preparations for the Champions Trophy, especially given the uncertainty surrounding star bowler Jasprit Bumrah’s injury. Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar emphasized Shami’s importance, particularly in white-ball formats. “His fitness concerns were not related to white-ball cricket. He has played most of the Syed Mushtaq Ali and some of the Vijay Hazare games. With Bumrah’s fitness uncertain, Shami’s experience and quality will be invaluable for the team,” Agarkar remarked.
Shami’s next opportunity to prove his fitness will likely come in later matches of the ongoing series, with India hoping to find the right balance ahead of the Champions Trophy.
As Shami continues his recovery and looks to make his mark, all eyes will remain on his next steps in what is shaping up to be a crucial return to international cricket.
