Does Mohammed Shami Set To leave For Australia Along with Rohit Sharma Ahead

 
Does Mohammed Shami Set To leave For Australia Along with Rohit Sharma A

The most experienced fast bowler in India, Mohammed Shami, had to brave a series of fitness issues that forced him out from playing international cricket. Post his right heel surgery in early 2024, Shami was rehabilitated, supported by the Board of Control for Cricket in India's Medical Team. He had an excellent tenacity as he came back to play competitive cricket. He played for Bengal against Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy in November 2024, bowled 43 overs. Then, he played in all nine games of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy as well.
All these left Shami with slight swelling in his left knee. This was deemed to be a result of the fact that he was bowling after a long time without doing so and thus subjected to increased joint loading. The BCCI Medical Team felt that the knee needed further time for graduated exposure to bowling loads. Along the lines of that, the BCCI declared that Shami will not be chosen for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia on December 23, 2024.

Does Mohammed Shami Set To leave For Australia Along with Rohit Sharma A
The decision was met with mixed reactions. Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri expressed disappointment at the exclusion of Shami, underlining the experience and value that the bowler carries for the team. Shastri's feelings highlighted deeper issues related to player fitness management and the lack of communication between the selection committee and the team management.

In the absence of Shami, the Indian pace attack had its problems, notably with Jasprit Bumrah being ruled out of a Test in Sydney by back spasms. The latter's situation paved the way for Mohammed Shami's recall to the five-match T20 series against England, more than a year after his last appearance for the national team. Shami was added to the team to provide the right strategic input for the bowling. This move comes ahead of the Champions Trophy.

The management of Shami's fitness in itself reflects the complexities involved in getting in balance a player's health and the demands of the team. That he made a comeback to domestic cricket with vigor only underlines his drive, but the knee problems that followed underlined the necessity for gradual workload management after injury. Going by the experience and skill set that would help the Indian cricket team make a comeback to international cricket, this is possible only if his fitness is prudently managed so there isn't a setback again.