IND vs NZ: Mohammed Shami bowls in Full Throttle at Chinnaswamy hours after India defeat - Australia Calling for the Pacer?

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After India's defeat against New Zealand in the first Test in Bengaluru, star pacer Mohammed Shami was captured bowling on the main pitch of the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday (October 20).

Although India suffered their first home Test loss against the Kiwis in 36 years, the visual of Shami bowling in full throttle is a bright sight for the Indian fans.

Shami, who is currently in rehabilitation in Bengaluru, joined in his bowling session at about 2:30 pm on Saturday, just hours after India's defeat at the same venue.

Following his surgery in London this February, Mohammed Shami has been on the sidelines, unable to take part in India's domestic season or the Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand. The star India pacer, who participated in the ODI World Cup 2023 with an ankle issue, had to undergo surgery right after the tournament concluded. Despite his efforts to recover, Shami faced setbacks, including swelling in his knee, which has kept him from playing cricket for over a year.

Shami in Full Tilt to Abhishek Nayar

Notably, the pacer, whose left knee was significantly strapped, delivered balls at full tilt to India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar for more than an hour on one of the stadium's main pitches. Morne Morkel was also present, overseeing the session. Shami also showed no signs of discomfort during the process, which is a boost in his road to recovery.

Is Mohammed Shami ready to travel to Australia?

India captain Rohit Sharma earlier indicated that the pacer may not travel for the upcoming Test series against Australia. He said India don't want to push Shami's return and will allow the bowler to heal completely before returning to action.

"We don't want to bring an undercooked Shami to Australia. That is not going to be the right decision for us," he remarked.

Shami was also left out of the Bengal Ranji squad after a recurrent swelling on his left knee, but the latest visuals are indicative that the India pacer may return to match fitness in the coming weeks.

The Indian team will be looking to bring a fit Shami for the Australia tour. With Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep in the mix right now, Shami has more than a place in the team and if the pacer manages to regain full fitness, he may fly down under for the Border Gavaskar Trophy.