Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami is facing a race against time to prove his fitness ahead of the first two Test matches against England. Shami has not resumed bowling since suffering an ankle injury and may miss the initial encounters of the series. This setback comes as another blow for Team India, as Suryakumar Yadav, the top-ranked T20 batsman in the world, is set to undergo hernia surgery, extending his time away from the cricket field.
Shami's participation in the Test series has been uncertain since he was named in the squad against South Africa in November. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has emphasized that his participation would be subject to fitness clearance, and as of right now, the medical team has not given the go-ahead.
Insiders suggest that Shami is doubtful for the first two Tests against England due to his delayed return to bowling. On the other hand, Yadav's hernia surgery is expected to keep him out of action for a significant period, potentially up to eight to nine weeks post-operation.
The BCCI is cautious about rushing Shami's return, especially with the availability of Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah. With the Test series being played at home, the team may not require a full complement of fast bowlers, reducing the pressure on Shami's swift comeback.
Image Source: X
© Copyright 2023. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
