The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided against rushing senior pacer Mohammed Shami to Australia for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Test series. Despite Shami’s recent return to domestic cricket following a lengthy injury layoff, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has yet to consider him for the series, according to reports.
Shami’s Recovery and Current Form
Shami sustained an ankle injury during the 2023 ODI World Cup final and underwent surgery in February 2024. His rehabilitation kept him away from competitive cricket for nearly a year. Earlier this month, Shami marked his comeback in the Ranji Trophy, delivering a five-wicket haul for Bengal against Madhya Pradesh in Indore. He further impressed in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, claiming a three-wicket haul.
While some experts have called for Shami’s immediate inclusion in the Test squad, the BCCI is reportedly taking a cautious approach. “There has been no discussion about sending Shami to Australia as of now. The current bowling attack is performing exceptionally well,” a BCCI source told the Times of India.
India’s Dominant Win in Perth
India began the Border-Gavaskar series with an emphatic 295-run victory over Australia in Perth, securing their second-largest Test win on Australian soil. The triumph also marked India’s second win in Perth, with their previous victory coming in 2008 at the iconic WACA Ground.
Despite a shaky start, with India being bowled out for 150 on the first day, the team rallied through a stellar bowling performance led by stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah, who claimed a five-wicket haul. India managed a narrow 46-run first-innings lead, setting the stage for a dominant batting display in the second innings.
KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal built a record-breaking 201-run partnership, with Jaiswal scoring a century. Virat Kohli followed suit, registering his first Test century in 16 months. India set an imposing target of 534 runs for Australia. The bowlers once again shone, dismissing the hosts for 238 to seal a commanding 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
What Lies Ahead for Shami and Team India
With Shami continuing to perform well domestically, his case for a Test comeback remains strong. However, the BCCI appears focused on managing the pacer’s workload and ensuring his readiness for future assignments. Meanwhile, India’s current fast-bowling unit has proven its mettle, giving the team a solid start to the series.
As the series progresses, the management will weigh Shami’s inclusion carefully, keeping both immediate needs and long-term priorities in mind.
