Fast bowler Mohammed Shami expressed satisfaction with his fitness and is optimistic about his return.

Gurugram: It must have been encouraging for the Indian team management to see Mohammed Shami charging in from a full run-up to bowl at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday. The precise fast bowler was showcasing his skills on the same pitch where the team suffered a defeat to New Zealand early on the fifth day.

What wouldn’t they have given to see Shami join forces with Jasprit Bumrah on a pitch conducive to fast bowling, where India was bowled out for just 46, allowing the Kiwis to establish a decisive 356-run first innings lead.

The good news is that Shami is fit, pleased with his bowling form, and eager to put himself to the test in matches, having not played since the ODI World Cup final defeat to Australia in November 2023. His performance for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, without any injuries, will help address the crucial question for both the national selectors and fans regarding whether the 34-year-old is ready to partner with Bumrah in the upcoming Test series against Australia starting on November 23. The duo has not bowled together in a Test match since Birmingham in July 2022.

Also Read: How to Apply Airtel Payments Bank Saving Account and it’s Benefits.

“I felt great after yesterday’s session. Prior to that, I had been bowling in half-hour increments to avoid putting too much strain on myself at once. Yesterday, I decided to give it my all over two sessions, and I bowled 100 percent, achieving excellent results. I hope to be back on track very soon,” Shami stated on Monday.

This isn’t the first time Shami has faced a lengthy injury layoff. After the 2015 ODI World Cup in Australia, where he claimed 17 wickets, he was sidelined for over a year due to a knee injury. Almost a year has passed since he last played, following ankle ligament surgery in London in February. He was close to returning when a knee swelling setback delayed his comeback.

“Yes, that has been a major question on everyone’s mind for quite some time—whether I’ll be part of the Australia series,” Shami remarked during a media interaction at Eugenix Hair Sciences, where he underwent a hair transplant. “But that’s far in the future. Right now, my main focus is on getting fit enough to play. I need to assess what type of bowling attack we require, and for that, I have to spend enough time on the field.”

He emphasized the importance of getting fully fit before returning. “It doesn’t matter how long it takes; I want to ensure that I’m completely ready. I don’t want to get fit here, only to face issues when I arrive there. I need to strengthen myself here before heading out.”

Shami refrained from setting a specific timeline for his return. “I can’t say for certain, but the moment I feel capable of bowling 20 or even 30 overs without discomfort and the doctors give me the green light, I’ll be ready to play that same day. I just hope to spend as many days as possible on the field before the Australia series.”

After such an extended layoff, especially later in one’s career, it can be quite frustrating, but Shami adopted a philosophical approach. “This experience teaches you about your resilience and how much you can refine your skills. During this time, it’s important to keep frustrations at bay. Focus on fitness and your game because it’s challenging to get everything back on track. Patience becomes crucial during such phases.”

Despite the long break, he isn’t worried about a decline in his skills. “The main focus should be on fitness; your inherent skills and talent should never be in doubt. While I understand that rhythm is essential, your skill won’t abandon you. But for fitness, you must put in the effort.”

Shami is eager to contribute in his fourth Test series in Australia. His performance in the 2014-15 series was particularly noteworthy, taking 15 wickets across three Tests and helping India secure a series victory. However, during the 2020-21 tour, he suffered a forearm fracture while batting in the first Test in Adelaide, forcing him to watch from the sidelines as the team made a remarkable comeback.

“Australian conditions suit us well. Any team with four fast bowlers, especially with varied styles like ours, benefits greatly from the bounce that’s typical there. There’s nothing better than that.

“All we ask is to set a competitive score that our bowlers can defend.”

Next Story: