For the IND vs. SA Test Series, Mohammed Shami is doubtful; a fitness test will decide his fate
Fast bowler of team India Mohammed Shami remains a doubtful starter for the IND vs. SA Test series. The pacer, who had an excellent run in the Cricket World Cup with 24 wickets in 11 matches, developed an ankle problem. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI Selection Committee did name Shami in the squad for the India vs. South Africa Test series starting December 26. He is also expected to play in the intra-squad match starting on December 20.
However, BCCI put an asterisk behind the name of Mohammed Shami, as he will need to prove his fitness before flying to South Africa. It has also been reported that Shami will travel to the National Cricket Academy next week and undergo a fitness evaluation. Only if he clears the tests will he be in the India Cricket Team.
As per the statement of the senior BCCI official on Monday, “Shami will report to the NCA for an injury assessment before traveling to South Africa. It’s quite normal for pacers and all-rounders to travel on away tours. His condition is not very serious, and he is managing it.”
Mohammed Shami consulted a sports orthopaedic surgeon in Mumbai to diagnose his condition. The source further added that “the national selectors wouldn’t have selected him had there not been a chance of him getting fit in time for the Boxing Day Test.”
However, with the crucial five-match Test series coming up against England in late January, selectors won’t take any risk. He will only travel if he is 100% fit to play.