Mohammed Shami Ruled Out of Remaining Tests in Australia Due to Knee Injury
India’s veteran seamer Mohammed Shami has been ruled out of the fourth and fifth Tests against Australia in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy due to a knee injury, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Monday. The 34-year-old pacer, who recently recovered from a heel injury and underwent surgery in February, has been sidelined to allow more recovery time for his knee.
Medical Update and Fitness Concerns
Shami, who has not played international cricket since the ICC ODI World Cup last year, has been actively participating in domestic cricket to regain match fitness. However, the BCCI medical team noted that his left knee exhibited minor swelling due to increased joint loading from his recent bowling workload.
“The swelling is on expected lines, given the increased bowling after a prolonged layoff,” the BCCI statement read. “Based on the current medical assessment, the BCCI medical team has determined that his knee requires more time for controlled exposure to bowling loads. Consequently, he has not been deemed fit for consideration for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.”
Shami’s Absence and Team Dynamics
Shami’s return was anticipated to bolster India’s pace attack, providing crucial support to spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. However, his unavailability means India will continue to rely on their current seam options to counter the Australian batting lineup.
Series Situation
India secured a hard-fought draw in the rain-affected third Test in Brisbane, leaving the five-match series tied at 1-1. With the Boxing Day Test looming, India will need to maintain their resilience and adapt to the challenges posed by Shami’s absence.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy continues to showcase intense competition between the two cricketing giants, and India will look to maintain their momentum as they aim for a series lead in Melbourne.
