Star pacer Mohammed Shami played a big role in Team India’s victory in the 2023 World Cup held in India. But he has been almost out of the Indian team since he got injured. After recovering from knee surgery, Shami returned to domestic cricket. However, he did not show the same speed and sharpness that he had during the World Cup.
The BCCI has clearly told Shami that the doors to Team India are not closed for him. But he must show both fitness and good form in the Duleep Trophy starting this month. The new focus is on his form.
Shami Doubts Himself, Says Source
A source close to the board told a newspaper, “Shami was not dropped because of form. The only reason he missed the England tour was fitness.” Shami was also not selected for the five-match series against Australia. The source added that Shami doubted himself before the England tour.
Selectors Didn’t Get Assurance from Shami
The source said, “After Shami withdrew from the Australia series, his presence was very important for the England tour. The selectors spoke with Shami before choosing the team, but he was not confident. The selectors did not get the necessary assurance from him. Now, we need to know if Shami really wants to return to the Indian team.”
Can Shami’s Body Handle the Load?
The source explained, “We will see if Shami plays if East Zone goes beyond the quarterfinals in the Duleep Trophy. We also need to know if his body can handle bowling, considering his knee and hamstring problems.” He added, “In Ranji Trophy matches, Shami left the field after bowling just three or four overs in a spell. The big question is whether his body can handle long matches that last several days. Also, Shami is getting older. We prefer bowlers who have seven to eight years of cricket left, rather than one who will soon turn 35.”
The board’s view on Shami has changed because Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna performed well in England, and left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh is waiting for his chance. Now, the selectors see Shami as falling behind in the race.