Mohammed Shami, India’s experienced pacer, has been officially ruled out of the remaining two Tests against Australia due to ongoing fitness concerns. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Monday that Shami, who has been recovering from a right heel injury sustained during the Men’s Cricket World Cup, remains unfit for the high-intensity demands of Test cricket.
Despite his impressive return to domestic cricket, Shami’s rehabilitation continues. The BCCI statement clarified that his left knee has developed minor swelling due to increased joint loading from his recent bowling workload. “This swelling is expected given the heightened bowling activity after an extended hiatus,” the statement read. “The BCCI Medical Team has concluded that Shami requires further controlled exposure to bowling loads to regain full fitness. As a result, he has been excluded from consideration for the remaining Border-Gavaskar Trophy matches.”
Shami, a vital member of India’s bowling attack, has 64 Tests to his name, with 31 wickets in eight outings on Australian soil. His absence leaves a significant void in India’s pace unit, which now includes Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, and newcomer Harshit Rana.
Indian captain Rohit Sharma emphasized the importance of caution in handling Shami’s recovery. “Unless we are 100%, even 200% sure about his fitness, we won’t take any risks,” Sharma remarked during a press conference.
Shami’s ongoing rehab includes strength and conditioning training, focusing on preparing him for future assignments. His participation in the domestic Vijay Hazare Trophy has also been placed on hold. Although he showcased stellar form in the Ranji Trophy last month with a seven-wicket haul and competed in nine Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy games, the demands of Test cricket require him to be in peak physical condition.
India’s decision underscores their commitment to long-term planning, ensuring Shami’s fitness for crucial future tournaments. The seasoned bowler has been instrumental in India’s success Down Under and remains a key player in their Test lineup, even as his immediate return is postponed.