Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami is gearing up for a comeback against New Zealand, with the long-term goal of being fully fit for the crucial Test series against Australia later this year. After undergoing ankle surgery in February, the Indian team management is taking a cautious approach to Shami’s return, ensuring that he is in peak condition for the five-match Test tour Down Under.
No Rush for Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami’s recovery process has been progressing well, but the management is in no hurry to bring him back into action as per Indian Express. Despite hopes of his availability for the Bangladesh series next month, it appears unlikely as the pacer is still building up his fitness. The focus remains on ensuring that Shami is fresh and fully fit when he returns, avoiding any risk of re-injury.
Mohammed Shami to return in Ranji Trophy and New Zealand Series
Mohammed Shami’s first competitive outing since last year’s World Cup final could be in the Ranji Trophy, which starts on October 11. This would allow him to potentially make his international comeback during the second or third Test against New Zealand at home, following the Bangladesh series.
Another option being considered is sending Shami with the India A team to Australia for two four-day fixtures, which would serve as a perfect warm-up before the main tour.
Careful Monitoring of Workload by BCCI
Having not played competitive cricket for a significant period, Shami’s workload is being increased gradually. After resuming bowling at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, Shami is being integrated back into the system step by step.
The plan includes regular net sessions followed by practice matches at the NCA, ensuring that he is ready for the demands of Test cricket, particularly the long spells required in Australia.
Roadmap for India’s Pace Attack
Mohammed Shami’s return is part of a broader strategy to manage the workloads of India’s key fast bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.
Jasprit Bumrah, who has been rested since the T20 World Cup, may be included in the Bangladesh series but is expected to play only selectively in the home Tests to manage his workload. Similarly, Siraj, who has had a busy schedule over the past 18 months, will also be rotated during the home season.
Mohammed Shami preparing for India vs Australia
The ultimate goal for Mohammed Shami and the Indian team management is the Test series in Australia. With a gruelling schedule ahead, including Tests against Bangladesh and New Zealand, the team is keen on having its key pacers in top form for the challenging conditions Down Under. The careful rotation and workload management are designed to ensure that India’s pace attack is both fresh and formidable when they face Australia later this year.
As the countdown to the Australia series begins, the Indian team is meticulously planning every step to ensure that their key players, particularly the fast bowlers, are in the best possible shape to take on the Aussies on their home turf. Mohammed Shami’s careful comeback is a critical part of this strategy, and his progress will be closely watched in the coming months.
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