3 Reasons Mohammed Shami Could Be Dropped by Gautam Gambhir for 4th T20I
India Faces Selection Dilemma After England’s 3rd T20I Comeback
India won the first two T20Is but couldn’t finish the series. England made a strong comeback, winning the 3rd T20I in Rajkot. The visitors kept their series hopes alive by restricting India to 145/9 while defending a target of 172.
A big topic after the match was Mohammed Shami’s return. He played his first T20I in 14 months but was not at his best. The seasoned pacer lacked rhythm, and England’s batters handled him with ease. With India needing a win to secure the series, head coach Gautam Gambhir might drop Shami for the 4th T20I. Here are three reasons why Shami might be left out.
1. Shami’s Focus Should Be on the Champions Trophy, Not T20Is
The current T20I series holds little relevance in India’s long-term plans. The team’s primary focus is on the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is scheduled to take place in February.
- Before the Champions Trophy, India will play a 3-match ODI series against England.
- If India wants Shami fully fit, it should let him focus on ODIs. A T20I series is a waste of his workload.
- Shami is not a core part of India’s T20I plans, making his inclusion questionable.
India may rest Shami for the rest of the series. They want him to prepare for the upcoming ODIs. His experience and skills are more valuable there.
2. Mohammed Shami Is Not Fully Match Fit
Shami has been out of action for over a year due to injury, and his return in the 3rd T20I was expected to be challenging. As expected, he looked rusty and off his game. He struggled to make an impact.
- Had India already won the series, he might have gotten another chance to regain match fitness.
- However, with the series still open, Gambhir cannot risk it. He may choose a bowler who is in better rhythm.
With the high stakes of the 4th T20I, India might need a fully fit, in-form pacer, not an out-of-rhythm Shami.
3. Arshdeep Singh’s Return Could Strengthen India’s Bowling
Arshdeep Singh, India’s best T20I pacer, was rested for the 3rd T20I. His absence was felt, especially in the death overs. Without him, India struggled to contain runs and take wickets in crucial moments.
- Arshdeep can swing the ball early and nail yorkers at the death. So, he is India’s most reliable option.
- His return could provide the much-needed edge India lacked in Rajkot.
- If India want to clinch the series in Pune, bringing back Arshdeep in place of Shami could be the best move.
Will Gautam Gambhir Drop Mohammed Shami for the 4th T20I?
With the series on the line, Gambhir and the management must decide on Shami‘s place in the XI.
