Mohammed Shami was widely tipped to return for the first international after a long layoff, India’s T20I series opener against England at Eden Gardens. However, the word came through at the toss from captain Suryakumar Yadav that Shami would not play and the reason for non-selection wasn’t specified. Social media was filled with fresh speculations about his fitness and whether he was really fit to come back.

But India seamer Arshdeep Singh quelled all these injury concerns. After the match, Arshdeep credited Shami’s incredible form in the nets and likened him to a “22-year-old” version of himself.

ALSO READ: Ajinkya Rahane and Shreyas Iyer Protest Controversial Dismissal in Ranji Trophy Match

“Just yesterday, I was talking to Shami bhai about his bowling. The way the ball was coming out of his hand was just incredible. Every delivery made you think, ‘Wow, how can someone bowl like this?’ It looked like the 22-year-old Shami bhai was back. Just wait a few more days, and you’ll get to see it in action,” Arshdeep Singh said in a post-match interview with JioCinema.

During the pre-match press conference, Suryakumar Yadav confirmed that Shami was fit and raring to go.

“It’s always good to have an experienced bowler in your side, especially someone making a comeback after over a year. I’ve seen his journey—the work he put in at the NCA, his focus on bowling and recovery. It’s great to see him fit and back in the team,” Suryakumar Kumar remarked.

ALSO READ: Jay Shah Joins MCC Global Advisory Board To Shape Cricket’s Future

Shami didn’t play in the first game. He is going to feature in the remaining series. The issue seems more related to timing rather than fitness. India comfortably secured a seven-wicket victory in the opening match and will look to build on their momentum in the second T20I scheduled to take place in Chennai. Fans are all eager to see Shami get back into the playing XI.