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[Saba Sports News] Mohammed Shami, who shone in the 2023 World Cup, has been sidelined since November 19, 2023, due to an Achilles tendon injury. After undergoing surgery in February, Shami has been in rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, aiming for a September comeback during the Bangladesh series.
However, the BCCI has opted not to rush his return, with a focus on the crucial five-match Test series against Australia later this year. The 33-year-old pacer, alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, will strengthen India’s pace attack once fully fit. A source mentioned, “Shami needs to be integrated gradually, especially for Test cricket, where long spells are required. The Australia tour is the ultimate goal.”
With the Bangladesh Test series likely off the table, Shami is expected to find form in the upcoming Ranji Trophy season in October. This domestic stint will provide him ample game time before potentially returning for the New Zealand series. If not fully match-fit, Shami may join India A’s tour to Australia for two four-day matches in Mackay and Melbourne, missing the New Zealand series.
Jasprit Bumrah, also rested since the T20 World Cup 2024 final, is expected to skip the Bangladesh series to stay fresh for Australia. The selectors are considering bringing in Arshdeep Singh or Khaleel Ahmed to bolster India’s left-arm seam options for the Bangladesh series.