NewDelhi: The Indian cricket team has been dealt a significant blow just before their departure for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as star bowler Mohammed Shami has sustained another injury. According to a report by the Times of India, Shami, who was recovering from an ankle injury, has now suffered a side strain, casting doubt on his participation in the series against Australia.
With the five-match Test series approaching, Shami’s chances of returning to the squad have diminished considerably. He was expected to prove his fitness in the upcoming matches against Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy, which would have been crucial for his selection in the Australian tour. However, reliable sources indicate that the new muscle strain will prevent him from playing, effectively ruling him out of the tournament.
The Bengal selectors have announced the squad for the next two matches in the Ranji Trophy, and notably, Shami’s name is absent. Earlier, he had missed the New Zealand series due to swelling in his knee, further complicating his situation.
Recently, Shami was seen participating in bowling practice at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru and had expressed confidence about his recovery during a recent event. He was well aware of the type of pace attack the Indian team would require in Australia and had been working hard to spend more time on the field.
Prior to this injury, Shami had indicated his desire to compete in the Ranji Trophy, but now he faces a prolonged wait for his return to competitive cricket. This development leaves the Indian team in a precarious position as they aim to present a strong squad following their defeat against New Zealand. The absence of Shami could weaken the bowling lineup, particularly as Mohammed Siraj has not been in form recently.