Picture Credit: BCCI
After back-to-back T20I series wins at home, India is all set for the much-awaited T20 World Cup in Australia. While Rohit Sharma & Co. tried to find answers to all the questions before the ICC tournament, bowling in general and especially at the death remains a big concern. The absence of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has added more woes to India's bowling ache.
Meanwhile, it is now being learnt that Mohammed Shami who is being looked as a probable replacement for Bumrah might have to visit the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for a fitness test this week.
Fresh reports have stated that Shami might not tour Australia with the main squad, and he will need medical clearance to be able to join the squad. Currently, he is on rest in Aligarh after recovering from Covid-19.
According to an InsideSport report which cited an BCCI official, Shami is 'recovering well' and has resumed light practice sessions. "But he needs time to be completely fit. He will report to the NCA this week. Only when he gets the medical team’s clearance, he will be able to join the squad,” the said official was quoted as per this report.
"Shami will not play any matches before T20 World Cup is actually a concern. Hopefully, he is fit and gets to play the warmups. We have time to make changes in the squad. Once we receive a report on Hooda, we will have more clarity. For now, the squad will remain the same including the reserves,” a senior BCCI official told InsideSport.
Meanwhile, selectors have included all reserve players to participate in the ODI series against South Africa as game time to prepare for the World Cup. While Team India will leave for Australia on October 6, Men in Blue will play two warm-up games on October 17 & 19 against Australia and New Zealand. India will also play Western Australia in practice matches prior to that.