The 2023 Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been a rollercoaster ride for Team India, with thrilling victories and disappointing losses. As the series continues, the Indian team management is left grappling with an important question: Is Mohammed Shami fit enough to shore up their pace attack?
Shami’s Return: A Gamble or a Necessity?
The veteran pacer, Mohammed Shami, has been ruled out of the squad due to an ankle injury he suffered in November 2023. Though his return to domestic cricket has been impressive, the Indian team management is still cautious about rushing him back into international cricket.
Indian captain Rohit Sharma, in a recent press conference, has clearly stated that the team should take the opinion of experts from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) before deciding whether to include Shami in the team. “We are depending on the NCA to give us a clear picture of his fitness. We do not want to take any risks that may jeopardize his long-term career or the team’s chances of winning the series,” Rohit said.
A Balancing Act: Risk vs. Reward
The Indian team is fully aware of the value that Shami brings to the table. The ability to swing the ball both ways and generate pace and bounce makes him a tremendous force in any bowling attack. However, the risk of aggravating his injury and potentially sidelining him for an extended period is a serious concern.
Bumrah’s Herculean Effort and the Need for Support
In the absence of Shami, it has been Jasprit Bumrah who has borne the brunt of the Indian bowling attack. He has consistently delivered match-winning performances, shouldering the workload of most of it. The relentless pressure on Bumrah, however, has also raised concerns about his workload and burnout.
India needs its pace bowling attack to step up to reduce the burden on Bumrah. The trio of Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, and Harshit Rana has given some promises but have not yet delivered to the extent of doing it consistently at the top level. With series development, the Indian team management has to take some tough calls on Shami’s fitness as well as the overall bowling combination. The stakes are really high, and every call is going to have a decisive say in the outcome of the series.
Read More :-
IND vs AUS 3rd Test: Mohammed Siraj Throw Almost Injures Jadeja, Creates Tension
A forgotten cricketer Ajinkya Rahanefiery comeback, fueled by the pain of neglect
Gabba Grit Australia Piles on Runs, India Faces Uphill Battle in Brisbane Test
Arshdeep Singh: The Unexpected Choice for ICC T20 World Cup
