Shami Set for Dramatic Comeback in Australia Series
IMAGE: Mohammed Shami was forced into the long layoff due to an ankle surgery that needed surgery. Photograph: BCCI
Indian fast-bowling stalwart Mohammed Shami is poised for a dramatic return to Test cricket, with his sights firmly set on the last two matches of India’s Australia tour. The Bengal veteran, who last donned the Indian jersey in the ODI World Cup final in November 2023, has been sidelined due to a lingering ankle issue that required surgery.
A Long-Awaited Return
“Shami’s India kit has already been dispatched to Australia. He will complete Mushtaq Ali Trophy T20 assignment and then leave,” a source close to the cricketer revealed.
Shami’s imminent return follows a frustrating period of recuperation. Just as he seemed poised for a comeback against New Zealand, he encountered another setback with swelling in his knee, further delaying his return to the pinnacle of international cricket.
Navigating a Careful Comeback
The National Cricket Academy (NCA) medical team, led by Dr Nitin Patel and Strength and Conditioning trainer Nishant Bordoloi, is closely monitoring Shami’s progress. The NCA medical clearance is considered a formality, with Shami’s preparation progressing smoothly.
To ensure he is fully match-fit for the Test series, Shami has opted to partake in the knockout rounds of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, India’s premier domestic T20 tournament.
“Shami will be playing the pre-quarter final for us against Chandigarh. He will join us in Bengaluru by tomorrow. However, I am not sure if he will be available if we qualify for quarters or go the distance. Guess he will be fit and available for the last two Australia Tests,” Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla revealed.
Shukla, who has worked closely with Shami, believes the pacer has made the right choice by opting to gain match fitness through T20 cricket. “He has already shed around six kilograms of body weight. He has played seven T20 games in 13 days. If he plays pre-quarters it will be eight games in 16 days. Shami himself wanted to play a fair amount of domestic cricket and inform NCA how his body reacts,” Shukla explained.
Shastri Weighs In
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has echoed Shukla’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of Shami’s presence in the Test series, ideally starting with the Brisbane Test from December 14th. “It’s crucial to have Shami back in the side as soon as possible,” Shastri remarked.
The Waiting Game Begins
The cricketing world eagerly anticipates Shami’s return, as India prepare to take on a formidable Australian side.
While the Brisbane Test might prove to be a touch-and-go scenario, Shami’s presence is practically guaranteed for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. With India having secured a victory in the first Test in Perth, and the second Test, a day-night encounter, currently underway in Adelaide, the stage is set for a thrilling finale to the series. Shami’s return could prove to be pivotal as India look to seal a historic series win on Australian soil.
How confident is Samir Khan, the cricket analyst, about Mohammed Shami’s fitness for the upcoming Tests against Australia?
## A Shami Comeback: Interview with Samir Khan, Cricket Analyst
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we have Samir Khan, renowned cricket analyst, to discuss the exciting news about Mohammed Shami’s comeback. Samir, what can you tell us about Shami’s return to the Indian Test squad?
**Samir:** This is fantastic news for Indian cricket fans! Shami is a true stalwart of the Indian pace attack, and his absence has been sorely felt. After a long layoff due to ankle surgery and subsequent knee issues, he’s finally set to make a dramatic return for the last two Tests against Australia.
**Host:** What are your thoughts on the timing of his comeback?
**Samir:** It’s a crucial moment in the series. Australia has put up a strong fight, and having Shami’s experience and skill back in the squad will be a huge boost for India.
**Host:** There were some setbacks during his recovery. How confident are you about his fitness?
**Samir:** From what we understand, the NCA medical team has been closely monitoring his progress. They have a fantastic reputation, and it sounds like Shami is ticking all the boxes. His participation in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy knockout rounds is a great sign he’s match-fit and ready to go.
**Host:** Shami has a history of performing well against Australia. Do you think he will make a big impact?
**Samir:** Absolutely. He has a knack for taking crucial wickets and putting pressure on the Australian batsmen. His experience and temperament will be invaluable on these crucial pitches.
**Host:** Thanks for sharing your insights, Samir. We’re all eagerly awaiting Shami’s return and hopeful for a strong finish to the series.