Mohammed Shami did not make the cut for India’s much-awaited squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, much to the disappointment of Indian cricket fans. The veteran pacer, who last played in the ICC ODI World Cup 2024 final against Australia, has been sidelined due to an ankle injury. Despite starting to bowl in the nets recently, Shami’s fitness levels still remain a concern.
Team India’s vice-captain Rohit Sharma expressed uncertainty about Shami’s availability for the Australia series, emphasizing the importance of the pacer regaining match fitness before making a comeback. Sharma highlighted Shami’s setback with swelling in his knees and the need for caution in rushing his return to international cricket.
Even in Shami’s absence, India’s pace attack for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy looks formidable with the inclusion of nine fast bowlers, including three reserves. However, the omission of Yash Dayal has raised eyebrows, especially after his solid performances in domestic cricket and inclusion in the India A squad for the Australia tour. The selectors have also opted for fit-again Prasidh Krishna and newcomers Harshit Rana and Nitish Reddy in the Test squad.
With a focus on pace bowling, India has opted to leave out spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel from the squad for the challenging Australian conditions. The squad, led by Rohit Sharma, includes experienced players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Rishabh Pant, along with talented youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to be a thrilling contest between the two cricketing giants, and India will be eager to put up a strong performance against Australia.
