In a significant update for Indian cricket enthusiasts, renowned pace bowler Mohammed Shami has revealed that he is now “100%” pain-free following a challenging recovery period marked by setbacks. The seasoned pacer is eager to demonstrate his match fitness for the much-anticipated Australia tour by participating in “one or two domestic matches.”
Shami, who has been an integral part of India’s bowling attack, has not donned the Indian jersey since the 2023 ODI World Cup. His absence has been keenly felt by the team and fans alike. However, there is optimism in the air as Shami expressed confidence in his fitness while discussing his recent practice sessions. Over the weekend, Shami took to the nets at Bengaluru’s iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium, following the conclusion of the first Test between India and New Zealand. His rigorous practice included bowling with a full run-up, proving to be a positive step in his rehabilitation process.
“It felt great yesterday,” Shami shared on the sidelines of an event in Gurgaon on Monday, October 21. “Before that, I had been bowling with a half run-up because I didn’t want to put too much load on my body. We decided yesterday that I would bowl at full intensity for the last two sessions, and I gave my 100%. It felt good, the results were encouraging. Hopefully, I’ll be back on track soon.”
Shami’s struggles began after he suffered a left Achilles heel injury post the World Cup last year. Compounding his troubles, he faced knee complications that left him battling for fitness. Indian cricket fans were given insight into his current state by Rohit Sharma last week.
. Rohit revealed Shami had been close to achieving 100% fitness before a troubling swollen knee hampered his progress. Describing the scenario as “very difficult,” Rohit expressed the challenges of making a decision about Shami’s participation in the crucial Australia tour. He further stated that taking an “undercooked” Shami would not be the best choice for the team at this juncture.
Addressing the speculations surrounding his potential inclusion in the tour, Shami reassured fans that the series, still a month away, was not yet on his immediate agenda. “I know everyone has been thinking about whether I will go to Australia or not but that series is still far away,” Shami remarked, emphasizing his focus on maintaining his fitness and gaining optimal strength in preparation for the tour.
“The only thing I want to focus on is how to keep myself fit and how to get as strong as I can for the tour,” elaborated Shami. “I know what kind of an attack we want for that Test series, so it’s better for me to work on the nuances and spend some more time on the ground before going. If I get fit and I get a gap of eight to ten days, then it’s better that I play one or two domestic matches before going to Australia.”
Shami also expressed his eagerness to return to competitive cricket as soon as he receives medical clearance. “I don’t know when I can play next but the day I feel comfortable about bowling 20-30 overs and I get the nod from the doctors, I’ll make a run to play a match,” he said. “I want to spend as much time as I can on the ground before going for the Australia series.”
The fervent anticipation of fans hinges on the upcoming series, with the first Test between Australia and India scheduled to kick off on November 22 in Perth. As Shami works to regain full fitness, the cricket fraternity holds its breath, hopeful that his return will bolster the Indian bowling arsenal Down Under.
In light of Shami’s determined efforts to return to the cricketing scene, all eyes are set on his upcoming domestic performances, which could potentially pave the way for his return to the international stage. With his sights firmly set on the challenges ahead, Shami is rising above his setbacks, exemplifying resilience and dedication, and aiming to return to his formidable best.