Pacer Mohammed Shami looks set to be in India’s 2025 Champions Cup squad. Shami was ruled out of international action for India in 2024 due to a chronic knee injury and was unable to return for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. However, the fast bowler has been a regular fixture in domestic cricket in recent months, showing that he may still be ready for the Champions Trophy. Shami shared a video of his workout on social media, making his intentions clear.
In the video, Shami can be seen preparing with all his might for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy match for Bengal. During this tutorial video, Shami can also be seen wearing knee pads to protect himself.
The big concern about Shami is whether he can deliver long spells and a full quota consistently. However, if the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024 and the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy games are anything to go by, Shami seems to be ready.
Precision, speed and passion – all ready to conquer the world! #Shami #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/gIefJidChX
— (@MdShami11) January 7, 2025
Shami played nine matches in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, picking up 11 wickets. Although he missed Vijay Hazare’s opening games due to heel inflammation, he returned and bowled eight overs in the games against Bihar and Madhya Pradesh.
Shami also made a stronger case for selection due to his skill with the bat. Shami made cameo appearances of 17 and 32 during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and then proved to be a reliable number eight for Bengal, scoring 42 off 34 balls against Madhya Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
If Shami’s fitness does not prove to be an obstacle, he should become an indispensable player for Team India. The 34-year-old was India’s leading wicket-taker in the 2023 World Cup, the last time India played 50-over cricket in a row.
Since the announcement of the Champions Trophy squad will be announced by January 12, the timing of the BCCI selection committee headed by Ajit Agarkar make a final decision on Shami. However, it should be noted that changes to the squad can be made no later than a week before the start of the Championship Trophy.
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