Rohit Sharma on Mohammed Shami's comeback and fitness updates from NCA
Rohit Sharma has come to give update about Mohammed Shami about his brilliant return and even giving fitness update from NCA. Here Sharma went on to show the intention of Shami for winning back the battle by mere determination and relentless efforts from the rehab camps. Now, the skipper for Indians goes on to mention that everything will be perfect again because he will give them considerable contributions in further matches ahead as well.
Captain Rohit Sharma has again provided a fresh update on pacer Mohammed Shami's possible involvement in the Test series against Australia. The 34-year-old bowler is out of action since the ODI World Cup final which took place in November of 2023 due to a string of injuries that have been keeping him behind. Following surgery on his ankle, his recovery was further compounded by unexpected swelling in the knee, which delayed his return to the field for the series against New Zealand.
Though Shami's comeback is taking much more time than expected, Rohit has already made it clear that the doors are not closed for his comeback in case he makes a complete recovery. He said, "It will largely depend on the updates from NCA, where he is undergoing his rehab at present.".
Speaking at the post-match press conference after the 3rd Test against Australia in Brisbane, Rohit said: "It's high time somebody from the NCA speaks up about Shami. The NCA is where he's doing his rehab, and it's very important for them to inform us of how he is doing." This was responding to queries on whether Shami would fly to Australia for the last two Tests of the series.
India captain revealed that Shami had knee problems and did not want to risk the team playing with him, not being fully fit. "We know he's playing a lot of domestic cricket back home, but there have been reports of discomfort in his knee. We don't want to risk him coming here and then having to pull out mid-game. Such situations can be detrimental," Rohit explained. "We will only put him back into the squad when we are absolutely sure that there is no room for doubt that he's 100% fit".
On his part, Shami is to regain match fitness by featuring in domestic cricket. The fast bowler had already participated in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and had been selected in Bengal's Ranji Trophy side. The fast bowler is now looking forward to regaining his best form while being keen to make a sizeable contribution towards Bengal's campaign in particular in 50-over format.
Recently, the BCCI confirmed that Shami's main focus is on match fitness and handling longer spells and greater workloads. This cautious approach ensures that Shami will only make an international return once he is prepared to handle the rigors of high-level cricket.
As Shami continues his training so that he becomes fit for the challenge ahead, it is being hoped by Indian team management that he would return to his team once he becomes full-fit.
