Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Mohammed Shami Ruled Out of 3rd Test
The Indian cricket team hoped to have Mohammed Shami for the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Those hopes are now dashed. A report by Indian Express says Shami is out of the Brisbane Test, set for Saturday, December 14. The pacer is recovering from a swollen knee. He aggravated it during the SMAT 2024 earlier this week.
Shami’s Injury: A Setback for Team India
Mohammed Shami, one of India’s best bowlers, is still out. There were hopes he would return. In the SMAT 2024 quarterfinal against Bengal on Wednesday, Shami bowled for Baroda. He struggled with knee swelling afterward, ruling out his return to Australia.
Indian skipper Rohit Sharma is hopeful about Shami’s return. He said the “door is open” for the pacer. However, Shami has not fully recovered. So, the team will prioritize his long-term fitness.
Shami’s Recent Performances
Shami has shown flashes of his usual brilliance in domestic cricket. He has taken 11 wickets in nine SMAT matches. His economy rate is 7.86 and his strike rate is 19. He even bowled over 40 overs in a Ranji Trophy game earlier this season. This showed his hunger and drive to regain peak form.
Despite his performances, his injury-prone past worries the Indian cricket management. So, they are being cautious. Shami last played for India in the 2023 ICC World Cup. He was the team’s top wicket-taker. After the tournament, he had surgery in February 2024 to repair his Achilles tendon. Since then, he has been working at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) to regain full fitness.
Indian Management’s Approach to Shami’s Recovery
The Indian cricket team is no stranger to Shami’s injury challenges. The management has stressed careful handling of his fitness to avoid worsening issues. The team’s support staff and players will give Shami ample recovery time.
Fans and experts hoped for Shami in the Trophy. But, the Indian team chose long-term goals over short-term gains. As of now, there is no confirmation about whether he will feature in the remainder of the series.
Statistics Snapshot:
- Last Match Played for India: 2023 ICC World Cup
- 2024 SMAT Stats: 11 wickets in 9 matches, economy rate 7.86, strike rate 19
- Surgery Date: February 2024 (Achilles Tendon)
