India’s pacer Mohammed Shami has been ruled out of the remaining two Tests against Australia in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The decision comes after the National Cricket Academy (NCA) deemed Shami unfit to handle the rigorous demands of Test cricket due to lingering issues with his left knee.
This announcement has left fans and cricket experts surprised, given Shami’s recent return to competitive cricket through domestic tournaments. Mohammed Shami had showcased promising signs of a comeback, playing for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy and later appearing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
However, questions arose when Shami wasn’t included in the Indian squad for the critical matches Down Under. Indian captain Rohit Sharma, after the Gabba Test, expressed the need for more clarity from the NCA regarding Shami’s fitness, emphasizing the importance of his presence in such a high-stakes series.
ALSO READ: Tanush Kotian Joins India Squad As Ashwin’s Replacement For Final BGT Tests
On Monday, the BCCI released an official statement addressing the situation. According to the medical team, Shami’s left knee showed minor swelling attributed to the increased bowling workload following a long hiatus. “His knee requires additional time for controlled exposure to bowling loads, which is why he has not been deemed fit for the remaining Tests,” the BCCI explained.
PRESS RELEASE BY BCCI ON MOHAMMED SHAMI.
– Shami has not been deemed fit for consideration for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. pic.twitter.com/UamkbXLuA3
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 23, 2024
To aid his recovery, Shami will continue to undergo targeted strength and conditioning programs under the supervision of the BCCI medical staff. His participation in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy for Bengal will depend on the progress of his knee rehabilitation.
Rohit Sharma acknowledged Shami’s efforts to regain match fitness, pointing out that the swelling in his knee was a concern despite his domestic performances. The uncertainty around his recovery timeline has left the team without one of its most experienced bowlers for the crucial matches in Melbourne and Sydney.
ALSO READ: Vinod Kambli Hospitalised: Cricket Fraternity Rallies Behind Former Star Amid Health Scare
Shami’s last international outing was in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia, where he showcased his skill on the grand stage. With India’s bowling lineup under pressure, his absence raises questions about the team’s depth and resilience as they aim to regain control in the closely contested Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
