NEW DELHI: Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami is finally back for India, over 14 months after he last played for the country in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia in Ahmedabad on November 19.
Shami was sidelined for an ankle ailment and later experienced knee swelling.
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The 34-year-old fast bowler was called up on Saturday for the five-match T20 series against England, which will begin on January 22 at the Eden Gardens.
Shami’s comeback for the England T20Is is crucial for Indian cricket as it underscores the importance of experience and versatility in the high-pressure environment of T20 Internationals.
Shami’s comeback is not just pivotal for India’s T20 setup but also holds immense significance as a precursor to the ICC Champions Trophy, which typically demands excellence in the ODI format.
India had been grappling with inconsistent performances in the death overs, often conceding plenty of runs. Shami’s proven ability to deliver accurate yorkers, slower balls, and variations in pressure situations provides a dependable option to tighten the screws.
Shami’s ability to swing the ball at pace makes him a lethal weapon in the powerplay. Against England, a team known for its aggressive starts, Shami’s presence will ensure India strike early and disrupt their momentum. His knack for breaking partnerships and dismissing key players can help India control games from the outset.
A strong performance in T20Is against England will reflect Shami’s adaptability and confidence, which can translate seamlessly into ODIs, particularly in a global tournament like the Champions Trophy.
With years of experience across formats, Shami brings composure and tactical acumen to the team. His understanding of game scenarios allows him to adapt to conditions and execute plans effectively, especially against a strong batting lineup like England’s.
Shami’s presence in the squad not only bolsters the bowling attack but also serves as an inspiration for younger pacers.
Bowlers like Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana can benefit from Shami’s guidance, which could be crucial in shaping India’s future pace attack.
The England T20Is will be an important preparation phase leading up to the T20 World Cup next year in India and Sri Lanka.
With his vast experience, Shami provides leadership to the bowling unit, especially in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah for this series. Shami often guides younger bowlers in pressure situations, helping them stay calm and execute their plans effectively.
Shami’s consistent performances in the IPL, where he excels with both the new ball and old, make his return a logical choice. His IPL experience against top international players translates well to the England series.
This comeback reaffirms the belief that experienced players like Shami can play a transformative role in shaping India’s T20 fortunes, especially in major tournaments like the T20 World Cup where India will be defending their title.
