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IND vs AUS: India’s senior pacer Mohammed Shami is on the brink of making a comeback to the Test squad for the ongoing series against Australia. The 34-year-old, who has been recovering from injury, is expected to feature in the last two matches of the series. Here’s a detailed look at Shami’s anticipated return and the journey leading up to it.
Preparation Underway: Fitness Clearance Awaited
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Shami’s return hinges on fitness clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) medical team, which is expected to be a mere formality. According to sources close to the bowler, his “playing kit” has already been dispatched to Australia, indicating that the team management is confident about his availability.
The veteran pacer will leave for Australia after finishing his engagements in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, for which he is playing for Bengal. While it might be difficult for Shami to play in the third Test of IND vs AUS, starting from Brisbane on December 14, he is almost sure to play in the iconic Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, which will begin on December 26.
Shami was last seen in action in the final of the ODI World Cup in November 2023. But he had to sit out immediately after the tournament after undergoing ankle surgery. Even though he was initially targeted to return during the New Zealand series, an unforeseen knee inflammation delayed his comeback.
Since then, Shami has been working hard on his rehabilitation and is now aiming for full-match fitness. The medical team at the NCA, led by Dr. Nitin Patel, and Strength and Adaptation Trainer Nishant Bordoloi, have been monitoring his progress.
Shami’s participation in the current Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has been crucial for him to get back on track. Representing Bengal, he has showcased his skill and fitness during the tournament. According to Bengal’s head coach, Laxmi Ratan Shukla, “Shami is very important for the team”.
“Shami will play the pre-quarterfinal for us against Chandigarh. He will join us in Bengaluru by tomorrow. Though I am not sure if he would be considered if we qualify for quarterfinals.”
The performances so far in the domestic circuit, have not only recharged him but also restored the belief of the selectors and the management that he is ready to face international cricket.
The Road Ahead: India’s Test Plans
With this, Shami reenters the Indian Test side and is expected to do much for the Indian side in finishing off on a high note as his team tries to complete a long series of IND vs AUS. His contribution should come in handy particularly on the crucial Boxing Day Test and the final test to conclude the series.
Shami, one of the most consistent performers in India’s Test cricket history, will add depth to the bowling unit. The potential to swing the ball and generate reverse swing with a capability to deliver under pressure will be crucial in a match where India would have to face a tough Australian side in their own backyard.
With his kit already in Australia and fitness clearance imminent, Shami’s journey back to the Indian team is almost complete. Fans and teammates alike will be waiting with bated breath for his return to action, hoping he can again produce match-winning performances.
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