India’s pace ace provides fitness update ahead of next WTC leg
India fast bowler Mohammed Shami last appeared in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 final.
Mohammed Shami has missed out on cricket action since the end of the global megaevent due to an ankle injury, for which he underwent surgery in February.
Recently, speaking at the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) annual awards ceremony, Shami revealed his comeback plans ahead of India’s second leg of WTC matches.
“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. I have to work on my fitness so there is no discomfort,” Shami said.
Every Mohammed Shami wicket | CWC23
India are presently leading the WTC standings with a point percentage of 68.52, and their upcoming series in the championship include Bangladesh (two Tests, home), New Zealand (three Tests, home), and Australia (five Tests, away). The Men in Blue would need favourable outings in these encounters to ensure a third successive final.
Shami has been a potent force for India over the last few years, both home and away, with 85 Test wickets at an average of 24.61 in the previous two WTC cycles. The pacer understands his importance and doesn’t want to rush his international return.
“The stronger I return, the better it is for me. I don't want to rush and risk getting injured again, be it against Bangladesh, New Zealand, or the Australia series.
“I've already started bowling, but I won't take any chances until I am 100% fit.”
In his quest to be fit and firing for India, Shami was open to the idea of featuring in the Ranji Trophy for his state team, Bengal.
“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."
Shami also discussed the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in the conversation. India currently hold the trophy and have also won their previous two Test series in Australia.
“India are the favourites to win the series. They [Australia] are the ones who should be on the lookout."
India’s first WTC encounter in the upcoming leg begins against Bangladesh on 19 September in Chennai.