Team India’s premier pacer, Mohammed Shami, has given another injury scare amidst speculation about his return for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Shami sustained the injury during Bengal’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh on November 29 at the Niranjan Shah Stadium, Saurashtra.
The Incident
The injury occurred during the penultimate over, where Shami awkwardly fell while attempting to field the ball, clutching his lower back in visible discomfort. The medical team, led by Nitin Patel, quickly attended to him on the field. Despite the setback, Shami managed to complete his over.
Mixed Performances on Return
Shami’s comeback in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has been a mixed bag.
- Against Punjab: Conceded 46 runs, taking just one wicket.
- Against Hyderabad: Impressed with figures of 3/21.
- Against Mizoram: Struggled again, leaking 46 runs without a wicket.
- Against Madhya Pradesh: Finished with figures of 0/38.
Bengal lost the match to Madhya Pradesh by six wickets, with standout performances by Madhya Pradesh’s Rajat Patidar (68 off 40 balls) and Subhransu Senapti (50 off 33 balls), while Harpreet Singh Bhatia sealed the win in the final over.
Border-Gavaskar Trophy Return in Doubt
Shami’s latest injury has cast doubt on his availability for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, where India is set to face Australia. After a strong return in the Ranji Trophy, there was hope that Shami would join the Indian squad for the second Test in Adelaide. However, this setback raises concerns about his fitness and readiness.
India’s Challenges Ahead
With Shami’s participation uncertain, Team India faces a significant challenge in their bowling lineup against Australia. Shami’s experience and skill are crucial to India’s success, especially in high-stakes series like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
India’s medical team is monitoring Shami closely, and his recovery over the coming days will determine his chances of making a timely return to international cricket.
