Mohammed Shami: Ready for WTC, But Not Rushing Back!
India’s pace spearhead, Mohammed Shami, last appeared in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 final. Since then, he’s been sidelined due to an ankle injury, but the good news is – he’s working hard on his comeback! Shami recently shared some insights about his recovery during the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) annual awards ceremony.
Here’s what the bowler had to say and what’s in store for India’s upcoming WTC journey.
Shami, who has undergone surgery for his ankle, assured fans that he’s on the right track but emphasized he’s not taking any shortcuts.
- On his progress:
“I am working hard to make a comeback soon because I know I have been out of action for quite some time. I want to ensure there is no discomfort when I return.” - On his fitness goals:
“I have to work on my fitness so there is no discomfort.”
Shami understands the importance of a strong return and is focused on a complete recovery.
India’s Current WTC Standings
India is currently at the top of the World Test Championship (WTC) standings with a point percentage of 68.52. Their upcoming fixtures include:
- Bangladesh (2 Tests, home)
- New Zealand (3 Tests, home)
- Australia (5 Tests, away)
For India, these matches are crucial to secure their spot in a third successive WTC final.
Shami’s Record and Future Plans
Shami’s importance to the team cannot be overstated. With 85 Test wickets at an average of 24.61 in the last two WTC cycles, his performance has been key to India’s success both at home and abroad.
- On rushing his return:
“The stronger I return, the better it is for me. I don’t want to rush and risk getting injured again.” - On upcoming matches:
Whether it’s the Bangladesh, New Zealand, or Australia series, Shami is determined to be fully fit before stepping back onto the international stage.
“I’ve already started bowling, but I won’t take any chances until I am 100% fit.”
Possible Domestic Comeback?
To test his fitness, Shami is open to playing domestic cricket for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy.
- “If I need to play domestic cricket to test my fitness, I will. What matters most is that I am fully ready for whatever comes next, regardless of the opposition or format.”
Eyes on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Shami also shared his thoughts on the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, where India will look to defend their title.
India’s Next Challenge: Bangladesh
India’s next leg of the WTC begins with a match against Bangladesh on 19 September in Chennai. While Shami’s participation is still uncertain, fans are eagerly awaiting his return.
FAQs:
1. When will Mohammed Shami return to cricket?
Shami is currently working on his fitness and aiming for a full recovery before returning to action. He may feature in domestic matches before returning to the national side.
2. What are India’s upcoming WTC matches?
India will face Bangladesh (2 Tests), New Zealand (3 Tests), and Australia (5 Tests) as part of the WTC leg.
3. Will Mohammed Shami play in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy?
Shami hasn’t confirmed his participation but has hinted that he will only return when he is 100% fit.
4. How has Shami performed in the WTC?
In the last two WTC cycles, Shami has taken 85 wickets at an average of 24.61, making him a key player for India.