NEW DELHI: With Team India gearing up for the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, veteran pacer Mohammed Shami’s return to competitive cricket from a long-term injury has sparked excitement among fans and cricket experts.
Shami, who recently made his comeback in the Ranji Trophy, should join the squad for the second Test in Adelaide, believes 1983 World Cup-winner Kirti Azad.
Mohammed Shami returns to competitive cricket as India get boost ahead of BGT
One of the iconic members of India’s ODI World Cup-winning team, Azad has called for Shami’s inclusion, provided he is fully fit.
Speaking exclusively to TimesofIndia.com, Azad praised Shami as India’s premier seam bowler.
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“Mohammed Shami, according to me, is the best seam bowler that India have. He has got good control. He can swing both ways. A very sensible bowler. If he’s fit, he should be there in the squad,” Azad stated.
Shami’s return to competitive cricket has been impressive. Representing Bengal in a Ranji Trophy clash against Madhya Pradesh in Indore, he dismantled the opposition’s batting lineup with a seven-wicket haul.
Additionally, he contributed with the bat, scoring a quickfire 37 runs off 36 balls, including two fours and two sixes.
In order to garner some more playing time following his competitive comeback, Shami is set to represent Bengal in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, as confirmed by the Cricket Association of Bengal on Monday.
India’s pace attack will be over reliant on Jasprit Bumrah during Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia
Meanwhile, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins with the first Test in Perth from November 22, followed by a Day-Night encounter in Adelaide from December 6.
The series will continue with matches in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, concluding on January 7, 2025.
“Australia, I mean everybody knows, is a good challenge, good hard, bouncy wickets. At one time, Perth used to be the fastest pitch in the world which has slowed down over the years. Melbourne has helped spinners and is good for batting,” Azad shared, reflecting on the challenges of playing in Australia.
“But me speaking from here without knowing what kind of pitches that we’re going to get would be very unfair. I feel that the Indian team is capable of playing on any track, now with the kind of experience they’ve had. They played international cricketers, international bowlers and batters in IPL matches,” he added.