India vs England: What does Mohammed Shami has in store on comeback trail?

---

The 33-year-old fast bowler will be making his comeback to competitive cricket after a significant break due to a knee injury he sustained following the 2023 ODI World Cup. Shami’s recovery and return have been keenly awaited, as he is regarded as one of India’s premier pacers in limited-overs cricket. Former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly expressed his excitement about Shami's return, acknowledging the bowler’s crucial role in India’s fast-bowling arsenal. 

Ganguly’s praise for Shami highlights the importance of the veteran pacer in India's white-ball strategy, particularly in the absence of other key fast bowlers at times. Shami’s experience and skill will add significant depth to India’s bowling attack against England, a team known for its powerful batting line-up. Having last played international cricket in November 2023, Shami’s return is anticipated to bring added firepower to the Indian side. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the right-arm speedster performs after his recovery, especially in the high-stakes series against England, which will serve as a vital preparation for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

"I'm happy to see Shami fit because I think he's probably the best bowler after (Jasprit) Bumrah in the country. I know he'll be a bit nervous because he's playing cricket after a long time, especially with a knee injury, but the good thing is that he bowled a lot for Bengal in domestic cricket, which is going to help him in the games to come," said former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly in a recent interview. 

"He's as good as anybody in the world. Shami and Bumrah bowling at two ends is different than Bumrah bowling from one end. Both players are vital to each other's success in Test cricket," he added. 

Mohammed Shami’s absence from India’s red-ball setup was particularly glaring during a challenging period in Test cricket. India suffered a humiliating whitewash to New Zealand at home, followed by a 3-1 defeat against Australia Down Under. In both series, Jasprit Bumrah was burdened with the lion's share of the bowling duties, often carrying the entire attack. Although Bumrah gave his best performance, leaving nothing on the table, the lack of a reliable partner at the other end ultimately hampered India’s efforts. Shami’s return is expected to provide that much-needed support, strengthening the bowling attack for future challenges.

Looking ahead, Shami, alongside Arshdeep Singh and Bumrah, is expected to form a formidable pace trio for India in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This three-pronged pace attack will be vital to India’s chances, especially in the high-pressure conditions expected in February and March. With Shami back in the fold, India’s pace department looks considerably more balanced, offering both experience and youthful energy. Fans and experts will be hoping that this trio can deliver consistent and impactful performances to help India make a strong run in the tournament.