Indian cricket team have been jolted by the news of their premier fast bowler Mohammed Shami likely to miss the first two Test matches against England starting from January 25. (More Cricket News)
It has been learned that Shami hasn't even resumed bowling post his ankle injury and with the England series fast approaching, the absence of Shami could hurt Team India given his ability and versatility with the ball on Indian conditions.
“Shami hasn’t even started to bowl, he will have to go to NCA and prove his fitness. He looks doubtful for the first two Tests against England. Whereas in Yadav’s case he will take more time than expected. After his hernia operation it might take up to eight-nine weeks for him to start training. Hopefully he will be fit during the IPL,” a source in the Indian board was quoted in The Indian Express.
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Shami was part of the Indian squad for the South Africa sereis that was announced on November 30 but the former's availability was subject to his recovery post the treatment.
Later in the press released by the Board Of Control For Cricket In India (BCCI) had stated that Shami's participation in the Test series was subject to fitness and had not been cleared by the BCCI Medical team.
As per a report in The Indian Express, the BCCI won't rush Shami's return for the England five-match series as the series is held on home turf and also, there are the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj to lead the pace attack. Furthermore, the pitches in India assisting spin, India won't need it's full set of fast bowlers.
