Mohammed Shami to play the last 2 Tests of the Australia tour; to leave after the SMAT campaign

By
Teja Devathoti
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19
Mohammed Shami

Senior India speedster Mohammed Shami is set to compete in the last two Tests of the ongoing series against Australia. His playing kit has already been dispatched to Australia, and the fitness clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) is expected to be a mere formality. While Shami’s participation in the Brisbane Test (December 14) remains uncertain, it is confirmed that he will play in the Melbourne Test on Boxing Day (December 26).

Shami, who last played for India in the ODI World Cup final in November 2023, was forced into a long layoff due to an ankle surgery that required further medical attention. Just before his much-anticipated comeback against New Zealand, Shami developed swelling in his knee, delaying his return.

Since the knockout round of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) is taking place in Bengaluru, it is expected that the NCA medical team, led by Dr Nitin Patel and Strength and Conditioning trainer Nishant Bordoloi, will assess him after Bengal finishes its campaign in the National T20 championship.

Mohammed Shami’s SMAT Campaign

Shami is currently playing for Bengal in the SMAT. He has already participated in seven T20 games in 13 days and is expected to play the pre-quarterfinal match against Chandigarh. Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla mentioned that Shami wanted to play a fair amount of domestic cricket to inform the NCA about his fitness and readiness. Shukla expressed confidence in Shami’s fitness, noting that he has shed around six kilograms of body weight and has been actively participating in domestic matches.

Importance of Shami’s Return

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri emphasized the importance of having Shami back in the team as early as possible, especially for the Brisbane Test. Shukla echoed these sentiments, stating that Shami had done the right thing by deciding to play SMAT after bowling 43 overs in a Ranji Trophy game in Indore against Madhya Pradesh. Shukla added that Shami’s participation in the pre-quarterfinals would make it eight games in 16 days, further testing his fitness and readiness.

India’s Performance in the Series

India won the first Test in Perth, and the second game, a day-nighter, is currently in progress in Adelaide. Shami’s return is eagerly anticipated by fans and teammates alike, as his experience and skill are seen as crucial for India’s success in the remaining Tests.

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