Ahead of India’s much-anticipated Test series against England, pace spearhead Mohammed Shami is set to face a setback. The star pacer continues his battles with an ankle injury that may rule him out of the first two Test matches against England. The five-match Test series is scheduled to commence on January 25.
The fast bowler has yet to resume bowling, and his fitness assessment is pending at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Shami’s inclusion in the Test squad against South Africa was announced on November 30, but his availability hinged on a successful recovery post-treatment.
The Indian Cricket Team emphasised in a press release that Shami’s participation in the Test series was contingent on fitness clearance from the medical team. Sources within the Indian board revealed that Shami’s return won’t be hastened, especially with the luxury of having pace options like Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah available. Considering the home conditions and the anticipated prominence of spin, the team management appears to be judiciously managing the pace bowler’s rehabilitation.
In a separate development, the injury concerns extend to Suryakumar Yadav, the top-ranked T20 batsman globally. Suryakumar is reportedly grappling with a hernia and is slated to undergo surgery. This setback could potentially delay his return to competitive cricket, with a recovery period of eight to nine weeks estimated post-operation.
Will Suryakumar Yadav be fit before the Indian Premier League in 2024?
However, the timing seems fortuitous for Suryakumar as it aligns with his expected fitness ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL), providing him with ample time to recuperate and regain match fitness. While Shami’s absence would be felt in the fast-bowling department, the depth and versatility of India’s bowling arsenal, coupled with an array of spin options, may compensate for the setback.
As both Mohammed Shami and Suryakumar Yadav navigate their respective recoveries, the Indian Cricket Board is reportedly seeking specialist consultations for Surya’s hernia condition, and he may undergo surgery abroad for comprehensive medical care. The meticulous handling of these injuries underscores the importance of player welfare and the strategic planning employed by the Indian cricket management.
