Border Gavaskar Trophy: No time left for Mohammed Shami return?

Three matches of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 have been completed, with the series finely balanced. India claimed a commanding victory in the first Test in Perth, while Australia fought back to level the series with a win in the second Test in Adelaide. The third Test in Brisbane ended in a hard-fought draw, leaving both teams hungry for an advantage in the remaining matches. However, one glaring void in India’s lineup has been the absence of ace pacer Mohammed Shami. Known for his lethal pace and ability to swing the ball, Shami’s presence has been sorely missed, especially in conditions favoring fast bowlers. The experienced seamer has been out of contention for international selection since the ODI World Cup 2023 final but has recently returned to domestic cricket.

Mohammed Shami set to miss remainder of Border Gavaskar Trophy?

Mohammed Shami’s performances on the domestic circuit have been nothing short of brilliant, showcasing his fitness and sharpness. Yet, his comeback to the national side remains uncertain as he awaits clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE), previously known as the National Cricket Academy, in Bengaluru. The COE clearance is crucial for Shami’s participation in international matches, as it ensures that he is fully fit and ready for the rigors of Test cricket.

Reports have surfaced suggesting that ace pacer Mohammed Shami might join the Indian team in Australia ahead of the Boxing Day Test match in Melbourne. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding his inclusion, leaving fans and experts speculating about the potential boost Shami’s presence could bring to India’s pace attack. Addressing the uncertainty, India skipper Rohit Sharma took the spotlight to discuss Shami’s possible participation. Rohit acknowledged Shami’s immense value to the team, especially in high-stakes matches, and emphasized that the final decision would depend on the pacer receiving clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Rohit expressed optimism about Shami’s return but remained cautious, stating that the team would prioritize his fitness and readiness for the rigors of Test cricket.

With the Australia vs India Border Gavaskar Trophy level at 1-1 after three matches, Shami’s inclusion could be a game-changer for India. His ability to generate pace and movement, combined with his experience in Australian conditions, would provide a significant boost to the Indian bowling attack. As the team prepares for the crucial Boxing Day Test, all eyes are on Shami’s potential return and the impact he could have on the series’ outcome.

“I think it’s high time somebody from NCA talked about him. That’s our national cricket academy where he is rehabilitating. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update," Indian captain Rohit Sharma told the press at The Gabba.

“But look, I understand he’s playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. The last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens," he added.

India skipper Rohit Sharma further emphasized the importance of ensuring Mohammed Shami’s complete fitness before considering him for selection in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Speaking about the pacer’s potential return for the Boxing Day Test, Rohit clarified that the team is unwilling to take any risks unless Shami receives full clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy, in Bengaluru.

Rohit underlined that Shami’s fitness remains the top priority, and the team management will wait for the COE’s assessment before making a decision. He highlighted the importance of avoiding setbacks, especially considering Shami’s role as a key bowler in the squad. The skipper acknowledged Shami’s impressive domestic performances since returning to action but reiterated the need for thorough evaluation to ensure the pacer can withstand the demands of Test cricket.

With the India vs Australia Test series tied at 1-1 and India looking to gain an edge in the Boxing Day Test, Shami’s return could significantly bolster the team’s bowling attack. However, Rohit stressed the importance of patience and caution, reflecting the team’s long-term approach to maintaining player fitness and ensuring sustained success in all formats of the game.

“There’s no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not a hundred per cent, 200 hundred per cent sure. We’re not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open. If those guys at the NCA feel that he’s okay to go and recover and play, I will be happy to have him," Rohit concluded.