Mohammed Shami's hopes of playing Australia Tests takes a hit: Reports

Mohammed Shami, who has been out of action since the One-Day International (ODI) World Cup 2023 final, is set to spend more time on the sidelines, according to reports. Shami underwent an Achilles heel surgery after the mega event and, as a result, missed both the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 and the T20 World Cup 2024. 

It is understood that Shami's ankle has flared up, which has put his immediate future in jeopardy. “Shami had resumed bowling and he was looking on track to make a comeback to competitive cricket soon. But this knee injury has flared up recently. BCCI’s medical team is assessing the injury but it may require quite a bit of time,” a BCCI source told The Times of India.

The 34-year-old was hopeful of playing a couple of Ranji Trophy matches for Bengal before making himself available for India, but as things stand, that will have to wait some more time.

India, who recently won both Tests against Bangladesh, will take on New Zealand in a three-match series starting October 16. However, India's biggest challenge is the five-match Test series against Australia, which gets underway on November 22 in Perth. 

India might need Shami Down Under, as they will certainly go in with three seamers, including Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Akash Deep has filled the role of the third seamer at home, and if Shami remains on the sidelines, he could be given the nod in Australia as well. 

If you’ve not downloaded the Cricket.com app yet, you’re missing out on our content — big time. Download the App here.