IND vs AUS: Why does Rohit Sharma not want Mohammed Shami in Australia?

Add as a preferred source on Google

India's Test captain Rohit Sharma has shared an update on the recovery status of fast bowler Mohammed Shami. Shami has been sidelined since sustaining an ankle injury during the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Rohit expressed uncertainty about Shami's participation in the upcoming Test series against Australia, which is set to commence next month.

"To be honest, it is difficult to make a call on him [Shami] for the Australia series. He had a setback and had swelling in his knees. That put him back a little bit and had to start again. He's at the NCA (National Cricket Academy) with doctors and physios," Rohit said in the pre-match press conference ahead of the 1st Test against New Zealand.

Shami last played in the ODI World Cup final against Australia in November 2023. Although he was named in India's squad for the two-Test tour of South Africa in December 2023, his participation was contingent upon fitness clearance. Unfortunately, the BCCI medical team did not approve him for the tour.

India's next Test engagement is a three-match home series against New Zealand. Following this, they will face Australia in the Border Gavaskar Trophy, which will feature five Tests for the first time. The Indian team aims to maintain their top position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings.

The WTC final is scheduled for June next year. India currently leads the standings with eight Tests remaining at home against New Zealand and five away in Australia. The team's performance in these matches will be crucial for securing a spot in the final.

Rohit emphasized caution regarding Shami's return to international cricket, stating that India won't rush into his return.

"We don't want to bring undercooked Shami to Australia. We are keeping our fingers crossed," he added.

As India prepares for these important series, they remain hopeful about Shami's recovery progress at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). His presence would undoubtedly strengthen India's bowling attack as they aim to perform well both at home and abroad.