Tim Paine on the Impact of Mohammed Shami's Absence in BGT 2024-25
Paine highlighted Shami's potential impact on the series during a conversation on The Grade Cricketer podcast, stating, "Shami is going to be a huge difference. With Bumrah, there is so much on his shoulders. If he gets hurt, then it's curtains for me." This underscores the weight of expectations placed on Jasprit Bumrah, who is expected to lead the bowling attack in Shami's absence.
As the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 approaches, former Australia captain Tim Paine has voiced concerns regarding the absence of Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami. Following an ankle injury sustained after the ODI World Cup 2023, Shami has been sidelined since November last year and will miss the upcoming series against Australia.
Paine highlighted Shami's potential impact on the series during a conversation on The Grade Cricketer podcast, stating, "Shami is going to be a huge difference. With Bumrah, there is so much on his shoulders. If he gets hurt, then it's curtains for me." This underscores the weight of expectations placed on Jasprit Bumrah, who is expected to lead the bowling attack in Shami's absence.
The Border-Gavaskar series is set to kick off on November 22, starting with the first Test in Perth. Following that, the second Test will take place from December 6 to 10 at the Adelaide Oval in the exciting day-night format. Fans will then witness the action at The Gabba in Brisbane for the third Test from December 14 to 18. The traditional Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground will occur from December 26 to 30, leading up to the series finale at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7.
Last week, India officially announced their squad for the five-match Test series, which notably did not include Shami. The team will be captained by Rohit Sharma, with Jasprit Bumrah serving as his deputy. The squad comprises players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, and veteran players like Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, and R Jadeja, among others.
With Shami's absence, the dynamics of the series may shift significantly, making it crucial for Bumrah and the rest of the Indian bowling unit to step up in this prestigious contest.
