IND vs ENG : Will Mohammed Shami Play 3rd T20I For India Against England In Rajkot?

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Mohammed Shami and his unexplained absence from India's Playing XI during the ongoing T20I series against England is currently the main hot topic.

Shami's exclusion from both the Kolkata and Chennai matches has left fans and experts speculating about his fitness and role in the team.

Contrary to rumors, he is not battling any lingering injury. In fact, the ace pacer is in peak condition and ready to deliver at full throttle. However, the team management has chosen to strategically rest Shami, preserving him for the 50-over format with the ICC Champions Trophy on the horizon. This cautious approach stems from lessons learned with Bumrah, whose frequent injuries have raised concerns about player workload management.

Reports suggest that Shami has worked tirelessly to regain his fitness and form, shedding 2 kg and bowling at his best in the nets. Yet, the team has decided to limit his involvement in the T20I format to avoid overexertion. A source quoted in The Times of India confirmed: "Shami has shed 2 kgs from what he gained before his injury. He is bowling at full tilt. He is not needed as much in the T20 matches. But he should be good to go once the ODIs come around."

With India already securing victories in the first two T20Is under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav and coach Gautam Gambhir, it seems the team management is unlikely to alter the winning combination. As such, Shami is expected to sit out the third T20I in Rajkot as well.

The 34-year-old's absence has been a talking point, especially given his lack of international cricket since the 2023 World Cup final. Following an ankle injury that required surgery and extended rehabilitation, Shami missed India's home season and was notably absent during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite participating in domestic tournaments like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy for Uttar Pradesh, he wasn't rushed back into the national setup.

The NCA, tasked with overseeing Shami's recovery, was thorough in its assessment, although reports of a swollen knee during rehabilitation added to the uncertainty. When Shami was finally named in the squad for the England T20Is, ODIs, and the Champions Trophy, it signaled a green light for his return to international cricket.