Ravi Shastri he is known in the cricket community as someone who speaks his mind without thinking about the consequences. The former Indian head coach is also in the limelight after the recent announcement that he will not participate Mohammed Shami from the Indian squad Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25
Ravi Shastri questions the Indian team management on Shami's injury recovery
Shami has been out of the Indian team due to an ankle injury that required surgery. The Indian pacer made a surprise comeback home representing Bengal at Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024. It was widely expected that he would be included in the Indian squad for Australia. However, official updates from BCCI clarified that Shami had a knee injury and would not be included in the squad before the 3rd Test match in Brisbane. The delay in communication and the 34-year-old's long-term injuries have encouraged Shastri who has worked closely with the pacer during his time as the head coach of the national team. Shastri expressed his surprise at how Shami's situation has been handled by the team management.
“Honestly, I was shocked by the media coverage of what happened to Mohammed Shami,” he said. Shastri said in the recent ICC Commentary.
Continuing to shed light on Shami's approach to recovery had he been in charge of the team, Shastri questioned the various complications surrounding Shami's injury and the impact his absence had on the team which led to the team's 3-1 defeat by the hosts. determined on the part of Australia.
“Where is he in terms of recovery? I don't know how long he has been at NCA. Why can't proper communication come out when you stop? A player of his ability, I would bring him to Australia, “I would keep him part of the team and make sure his rehabilitation was done with the team,” Shastri concluded.
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Shami's record in Australia shows his importance
One of the main reasons behind Shami's withdrawal from India was the impact on the Indian team during their tour to Australia. The pacer has an impressive record for Australia, having played eight matches and taking 31 wickets at a respectable 3.55. His contributions include two impressive five-wicket hauls, showing his ability to deliver game-changing performances in difficult foreign environments.
Shami's presence in the squad would have greatly boosted the Indian bowling attack, providing experience and skill, which have been essential in previous victories. His absence was felt the most when India failed to retain BGT, the popular name it had enjoyed for the past decade. The series loss not only ended an incredible run but also highlighted the gaps in the team's performance under pressure.
Looking ahead, Shami's recovery and preparation to compete at the highest level will play a vital role in shaping India's future campaigns. His fitness and maturity will be crucial for India's upcoming goals ICC Champions Trophy 2025and their determination to regain dominance in Test cricket in the tough five-match series in England. Shami's proven ability to excel in high pitches makes him a key asset to the team, and his return could be the key to India's resurgence in the international arena.