Former Indian coach Ravi Shastri believes Mohammed Shami‘s swift return to the national team would significantly benefit India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Shami’s presence would alleviate the pressure on Jasprit Bumrah. Shami is currently working his way back to full fitness after an ankle injury side lined him for a year. He is currently participating in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for Bengal.
“Quicker Mohammed Shami reaches here, (the) better (it is) for India. He is playing a lot of domestic matches,” Shastri commented during the second Test.
Shastri highlighted the burden on Bumrah, particularly when other bowlers are not performing at their best. He noted a visible difference in the pressure exerted on the opposition when Bumrah bowls compared to other bowlers.
“You can see the pressure (on the opposition) when Bumrah is bowling and others are bowling. There is a lot of pressure on Bumrah.”
Shami has made a promising comeback, playing seven matches for Bengal in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and securing eight wickets. His recent performances suggest a return to form and control. The National Cricket Academy and a national selector are closely monitoring his progress.
Shami has bowled several economical spells, demonstrating regained rhythm and control. This progress signifies a positive step in his recovery. He is under the watchful eye of NCA officials and a national selector who are tracking his performance.
While acknowledging Shami’s progress, Shastri cautioned against rushing him back for the third Test in Brisbane. He suggested Melbourne or Sydney as more realistic targets for Shami’s return to the Test squad.
“Brisbane might be too early but surely (Shami can be available for) Melbourne and Sydney,” Shastri stated.
Shami has a strong track record against Australia in Tests, having taken 44 wickets in 12 matches. A significant portion of these wickets, 31, were taken in eight Tests played in Australia.
His experience and proven success against Australia make him a valuable asset to the Indian team. Shami’s potential inclusion in the later stages of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy could strengthen India’s bowling attack.
