Shami deemed unfit by BCCI for remaining two BGT Tests

Fast bowler Mohammed Shami hasn’t been deemed fit by the BCCI Medical Team at the Centre of Excellence for the remainder of the Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in Australia.

The pacer didn’t play for India post the 2023 ODI World Cup in India where he enthralled everyone with his fiery bowling. He went for surgery in his right heel and had a long period of rehabilitation and recovery after that. However, he made a return to professional cricket recently in November, where he bowled 43 overs in the Ranji Trophy and then played nine games in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT). 

Meanwhile, he was also bowling in the nets on the sidelines of domestic competitions to build his workload for the BGT in Australia gradually. However, according to the press release by the BCCI, “his left knee has exhibited minor swelling due to increased joint loading from his bowling workload. The swelling is on the expected lines, owing to the increased bowling after a prolonged period.”

Based on the medical assessment, the “BCCI Medical Team has determined that his knee requires more time for controlled exposure to bowling loads.” As a result, he has not been deemed fit for consideration for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

His participation in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy will also depend on his fitness. 

Meanwhile, the Indian fast bowling lineup in Australia has looked a lot dependent on Jasprit Bumrah, who has taken the majority of opposition wickets (21). While Mohammad Siraj has been an able deputy with 13 wickets, India have missed the experience of Shami on many occasions as the remaining fast bowling options in Harshit Rana, Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna don’t have the same experience.  

The series stands at 1-1 after three Tests. The next two Tests will be in Melbourne and Sydney from December 26 and January 3, respectively.