‘Lose Weight, Regain Fitness’: BCCI Lays Down Strict Guidelines for Mohammed Shami’s Team India Return

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Veteran India pacer Mohammed Shami faces a critical test as he works towards regaining full fitness and reclaiming his place in the national team. According to a report by TOI, the BCCI has implemented strict fitness guidelines for the bowler, who is eyeing a return for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

The guidelines reportedly include losing weight, building endurance, and reducing dependency on medical support, with selectors keenly observing his progress.

Shami recently marked his return to competitive cricket, representing Bengal in the Ranji Trophy following a prolonged absence due to an ankle injury. While his initial performance was encouraging, the BCCI’s medical team remains cautious.

"What one needs to see is when he can let go of the dependency on the BCCI's medical team, which is treating him after every spell he is bowling," said a BCCI source quoted by TOI.

Mohammed Shami’s Road to Redemption

Shami is currently participating in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) games, which are being treated as a temporary yardstick for his readiness. "The medical team feels he will start losing weight as he keeps playing matches, which will help build his endurance," the source added.

These matches are part of a carefully curated plan by the BCCI’s head of sports science, Nitin Patel, and National Cricket Academy trainer, Nishant Bordoloi. The duo has designed a regimen aimed at ensuring Shami's fitness for both short-term and long-term goals.

While Shami’s SMAT performances are under scrutiny, the selectors remain mindful of the high-stakes ICC Champions Trophy in February. Bowling in short T20 spells may not provide an adequate gauge for Shami’s ability to endure the rigours of a Test series.

"To maintain intensity in a high-profile Test series is a different ball game,” the anonymous BCCI source said in the TOI report. “There is a chance he could be sent to train with Team India if he clears the SMAT challenge, but to play him will be a big call.”

A Potential Late Entry for Mohammed Shami in Border-Gavaskar Trophy?

If Shami clears all hurdles, he might join Team India for the third Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, scheduled to begin on December 14. However, the BCCI is prioritising his long-term recovery over short-term gains.

In Shami’s absence, India’s pace attack has flourished, with stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and debutant Harshit Rana excelling in the first Test at Perth. The trio ensured India’s commanding 295-run victory, offering selectors reassurance about the team’s depth.