Ravi Shastri is known in the cricketing community as someone who speaks his mind without thinking of the consequences. The former Indian head coach has been in the spotlight once again after a recent statement over exclusion of Mohammed Shami from the Indian squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25
Ravi Shastri questions Indian team management over Shami’s injury update
Shami has been out of the Indian squad due to an ankle injury which later on required surgery. The Indian pacer made a stunning comeback at the domestic representing Bengal in the Ranji Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024. It was largely anticipated that he would be included in the squad for India’s tour to Australia. However, an official update from the BCCI clarified that Shami had a swollen knee issue and would not be included in the squad ahead of the 3rd Test match in Brisbane. The delay in communication and long injury layover for the 34-year-old has instigated Shastri who has worked closely with the pacer during his tenure as the head coach of the national team. Shastri expressed his astonishment over the way Shami’s situation has been handled by the team management.
“To be honest, I was very surprised with the communication going on in the media as to what exactly happened to Mohammed Shami,” Shastri said in the latest The ICC Review.
Further highlighting Shami’s road to rehabilitation had he been in-charge of the squad, Shastri questioned the various issues in the entire saga of Shami injury and how his absence negatively impacted the team which ultimately led to a 3-1 bashing at the hands of a determined Australian side.
“Where is he when it comes to recovery? He’s been sitting in the NCA for I don’t know how long. Why can’t proper communication come out on where he stands? A player of his ability, I would have brought him to Australia, “I would have kept him part of the team and made sure that his rehabilitation was done with the team,” Shastri concluded.
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Shami’s record in Australia highlights his importance
One of the major reasons Shami’s exclusion had a significant impact on the Indian team during their tour of Australia is evident from his exceptional track record in the country. The seasoned pacer has an impressive history in Australian conditions, having played 8 Test matches and secured 31 wickets at a respectable economy rate of 3.55. His contributions include two remarkable five-wicket hauls, showcasing his ability to deliver game-changing performances in challenging overseas conditions.
Shami’s presence in the squad could have bolstered India’s bowling attack significantly, offering both experience and skill, which proved crucial in past victories. His absence was felt deeply as India failed to retain the BGT, a prestigious title they had held for the past decade. The series loss not only ended a remarkable streak but also highlighted gaps in the team’s performance under pressure.
Looking ahead, Shami’s recovery and readiness to compete at the highest level will play a pivotal role in shaping India’s future campaigns. His match-level fitness and sharpness will be vital for India’s ambitions in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as well as their quest to regain dominance in Test cricket during the challenging five-match series in England. Shami’s proven ability to thrive in high-stakes situations makes him an indispensable asset for the team, and his comeback could be the key to India’s resurgence on the global stage.
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