Mohammed Shami’s exclusion from India’s squad for the England Test series comes as a surprise to many, especially given his past success in overseas conditions.
The reason behind Mohammed Shami missing out on England Test series
However, Shami’s absence is due to a long-standing ankle injury that has kept him out of Test action since the WTC Final 2023. Despite his last surgery, Shami has struggled to regain full fitness and remains on the sidelines.
Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar addressing the press conference, said that the selectors and medical team have taken a cautious approach, not wanting to risk aggravating the injury during a demanding five-match series. Considering the tight schedule and travel involved, including a player who hasn’t played in recent months was seen as too risky. The management wanted to give him ample time to recover completely before bringing him back into the fold.
“He’s had a little bit of a setback over the past week, got some MRIs done. Wasn’t going to be able to play five Tests. Don’t think his workload is where he needs to be. Medical guys told he’ll be ruled out. We were hoping he’ll play some part, but if he’s not fit, we’d rather pick guys fit and available rather than waiting.” Agarkar stated.
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Shami continues his long wait for a Test cricket return
Shami has been out of the Indian Test side since the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023 at The Oval. Following that match, he has struggled with a recurring ankle injury, which required surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation period. Though Shami has been a key figure in India’s pace attack for years, his absence from international cricket has continued due to the need for careful recovery
In his absence, India have chosen a balanced pace unit combining experience and youth for the England Test tour. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj will lead the attack, both familiar with English conditions and capable of delivering consistent performances. Supporting them are young fast bowlers Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh. Akash has been rewarded for his strong domestic form, while Arshdeep brings a left-arm option and has shown progress in red-ball cricket.
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