Mohammed Shami's Inclusion In India's ODI And T20I Squads Unlikely, Emphasis Shifts Towards Tests: Report
Star Indian pacer Mohammed Shami is set to take a break from white-ball cricket to preserve his Test career. With seven upcoming Test matches, including a crucial series against England at home, Shami's role is deemed significant in sub-continental conditions where the ball tends to reverse.
PTI reported, "It is learnt for the time being, Shami won't play white-ball games as there are seven Test matches, including five against England at home and the 'Amroha Express' is expected to play a big role in the sub-continental conditions where the ball reverses a lot."
Ankle Injury and Test Squad Inclusion
Despite being the highest wicket-taker in the recently concluded ODI World Cup with 24 wickets, Shami is currently nursing an ankle injury. This setback led to his omission from the three T20Is and ODIs in South Africa. However, he has been named in the Test squad, contingent on clearing the fitness test.
T20 World Cup Possibility
Shami's exclusion from shorter formats doesn't eliminate his chances for the T20 World Cup. Selectors believe experienced players from the ODI World Cup squad can play a crucial role in the T20 format, and Shami's fate will depend on his performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
IPL Crucial for T20 World Cup Consideration
PTI added, “Whether Shami will play next year's T20 World Cup will depend on how he fares in the Indian Premier League, where he has had two good seasons for the Gujarat Titans.”
Fitness Focus Ahead of Test Series
Currently, the priority is to bring Shami back to full fitness before India embarks on seven consecutive Test matches—two in South Africa and five against England at home.
Ankle Condition Diagnosis and Rehabilitation
Shami sought consultation in Mumbai from a sports orthopaedic to address his ankle condition, described as a non-field injury. He will undergo rehabilitation at the NCA to ensure fitness for the upcoming Boxing Day Test.
"It is not exactly an on-field injury. It is an ankle condition that has developed. Shami came to Mumbai to consult the doctors. He will also go to NCA for rehab and recuperation work."The national selectors wouldn't have selected him had there not been a chance of him getting fit in time for the Boxing Day Test," a source within the BCCI, who is knowledgeable about the matter, conveyed to PTI under the condition of anonymity.
ODI World Cup Impact
Despite missing the initial four matches of the recent ODI World Cup, Shami's impactful performance with 24 wickets in seven games played a crucial role in India's sustained dominance, culminating in a final loss to Australia.
Observations and Next Steps
"Shami, in fact, came to watch one of Bengal's Vijay Hazare Trophy games as his younger brother Mohammed Kaif is also playing. He seemed to be walking with a slight limp," said a CAB source.
This update provides insights into Shami's strategic career decisions, the impact of his ankle injury, and the delicate balance between different formats in international cricket.