Mohammed Shami Ruled Out of Remaining Two India vs Australia Matches, Confirms BCCI

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that veteran pacer Mohammed Shami will miss the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) due to fitness concerns.

Shami, who has been recuperating from a heel injury and featured in the domestic structure over the ongoing India vs Australia series, has developed minor swelling in his left knee following an increased bowling workload.

BCCI Honorary Joint Secretary Devajit Saikia, in an official statement, said: "The BCCI Medical Team has determined that Mohammad Shami's knee requires more time for controlled exposure to bowling loads. He is not fit for the demands of Test cricket at this stage."

The statement also highlighted that Shami, who bowled extensively in domestic cricket after recovering from right heel surgery, experienced knee discomfort due to joint loading. Despite this being an expected part of his recovery process, the medical team has opted to focus on his long-term readiness.

"Shami will continue targeted strength and conditioning work under the guidance of our medical staff," Saikia added.

The news comes as a blow to Team India, locked 1-1 in a fiercely contested series against Australia. With Jasprit Bumrah already struggling to find adequate support from Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, and Harshit Rana, Shami's absence leaves a significant void in India's bowling attack.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, when asked earlier about Shami's availability, emphasised the importance of receiving clear updates from the medical team. "The last thing you want is a player coming back too soon and pulling out mid-game," Rohit had remarked, urging patience with the pacer's recovery.

Fans had been eagerly anticipating Shami's return, especially after his performances in the domestic circuit, where he bowled 43 overs in the Ranji Trophy and participated in all nine matches of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. However, the BCCI's cautious approach underscores the priority of ensuring Shami's fitness for future challenges.

While Shami's participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy will be assessed based on his progress, his unavailability for the remaining BGT matches leaves India's management grappling with bowling combinations as they look to regain the coveted trophy.