Ravi Shastri has expressed optimism regarding Mohammed Shami’s return to the Indian cricket team, emphasizing that the seasoned pacer still has a vital role to play. Speaking during Day 5 of the Kanpur Test against Bangladesh, Shastri highlighted Shami’s importance to the team, despite his absence due to an ankle injury sustained after the 2024 ODI World Cup.
Shami, India’s top wicket-taker in the World Cup, has been out of action since, missing both the IPL and the T20 World Cup. However, Shastri remains hopeful that Shami will make a full recovery soon, with expectations of his inclusion in the upcoming Test series against New Zealand and the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. His experience and ability to reverse swing the ball in tough conditions make him a valuable asset, particularly on overseas tours.
Shastri, while commentating, mentioned how Shami would have been especially effective on the reversing pitches in Kanpur, noting his vast experience and familiarity with such conditions, having played there during his early cricketing years. “Shami’s seam presentation is among the best in world cricket, and when the ball reverses, he becomes a dangerous bowler,” Shastri said. He further expressed hope that Shami’s rehabilitation is progressing smoothly and that he will be back to full fitness soon.
Shastri’s sentiments were echoed by Dinesh Karthik, who also praised Shami as one of India’s premier pace bowlers, alongside Jasprit Bumrah. Karthik acknowledged Shami’s impressive record and highlighted his significant contribution to India’s pace attack over the years. Both commentators agree that while Shami may be out of the T20I setup, he remains crucial to India’s success in Test and ODI formats.
With the fast-approaching series against New Zealand and Australia, Shami’s return will be critical, especially given the need for a well-rotated pace attack during India’s grueling five-Test series against Australia. If Shami can regain his form and fitness, his presence will provide much-needed experience and skill to the Indian bowling lineup.
