In a worrisome development for the Indian cricket team, pace spearhead Mohammad Shami is likely to be sidelined for the initial two matches of the upcoming five-Test series against England, scheduled to kick off on January 25. This setback arises as Shami has yet to resume bowling following an ankle injury, as per reports.
Sources indicate that Shami has not initiated his bowling practice, and it is imperative for him to demonstrate his fitness at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). An Indian Express report suggests that Shami's participation in the Test squad against South Africa was contingent upon his fitness. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed in a press release that Shami had not received clearance from the Medical Team, leading to his exclusion from the two Tests against South Africa.
Adding to the team's challenges, Suryakumar Yadav, the top-ranked T20 batter globally, who captained India in the T20Is against South Africa in December, is grappling with a hernia and is slated to undergo surgery.
Specialists are currently being consulted by the BCCI regarding Yadav's hernia condition, and there are indications that he may need to undergo the surgery abroad. The batter is anticipated to achieve full fitness in time for the Indian Premier League (IPL), according to reports.
An inside source from the Indian board expressed concerns, stating, "Shami hasn’t even started to bowl; he will have to go to NCA and prove his fitness. He looks doubtful for the first two Tests against England. Whereas in Yadav’s case, he will take more time than expected. After his hernia operation, it might take up to eight-nine weeks for him to start training. Hopefully, he will be fit during the IPL."
With the availability of fellow fast bowlers Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming Test series against England, the BCCI is likely to adopt a cautious approach in Shami's return, given the team's depth in the pace bowling department.
(With Agency Inputs)
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