Shami’s Fitness Doubts Concern Selectors

KARACHI: Veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami reportedly expressed uncertainty regarding his fitness for the upcoming Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series against England, according to reports from Indian media on Monday.

Prior to finalizing the squad for the five-match series, selectors consulted with Shami. However, a report indicates that Shami’s response did not provide the selectors with the necessary reassurance concerning his readiness for the demanding tour.

An official from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) stated, “His omission wasn’t due to performance issues but solely due to fitness concerns preventing his travel to England.”

The official added, “Following his absence from the previous tour of Australia, his presence was highly desired for the England series. The selectors engaged in discussions with him before the squad selection; however, his responses lacked confidence. The crucial assurance we sought was absent.”

“Moreover, Shami is not getting any younger. Therefore, preference will be given to players who have approximately seven to eight years of cricket ahead of them, rather than someone nearing 35.”

Shami, whose last Test appearance was in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2021-23 final against Australia, must now demonstrate his readiness for a comeback by participating in India’s domestic tournament, the Duleep Trophy, representing the East Zone.

He is slated to face the North Zone, led by India’s Test captain Shubman Gill. Further reports suggest that Shami’s selection for India’s forthcoming Test assignments hinges on his demonstrated ability to bowl extended spells during the domestic tournament.

The BCCI source continued, “If Shami delivers a significant performance against North Zone, the selectors will undoubtedly take notice, given his undeniable quality.”

“However, the key question remains whether he will participate even if East Zone progresses beyond the quarter-final stage. Can his body endure the strain, considering his troublesome knee and hamstring?”

“In Ranji matches, he typically bowled spells of three to four overs before leaving the field. Therefore, whether his body can withstand the demands of a multi-day game remains a significant concern.”