“Conserving an in depth eye on Shami” – Morne Morkel optimistic about pacer’s BGT return

Morne Morkel, the India cricket team’s assistant coach, counts Mohammed Shami‘s return to action as a massive victory. The 34-year-old was out of action for nearly a year, having sustained an ankle injury during the ODI World Cup 2023. He was originally expected to return by early September, but that date kept getting pushed back. 

It wasn’t until a week ago (November 13) that Shami played his first cricket match. Although still not looking 100%, the right-arm pacer managed to take 7 wickets and score valuable 39 runs, which helped his home side, Bengal, beat Madhya Pradesh by 11 runs. However, question marks over his match witness still remain.

Shami ready for India vs Australia Tests?

Many wanted Shami to fly to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), but the Indian management did not make a hasty decision, which could put Shami at risk of further aggravating his injury. Morkel admits that they are keeping an eye on the pacer and are helping him get back to his old self as quickly as possible.

“We are keeping a close eye on Shami. He has been out for a year. For us, it is a massive win that he is back playing. How can we give him the best support to find his feet again. He’s working closely with the people back home. He is a world-class bowler,” Morkel said before the India vs Australia 1st Test.

Morkel didn’t hint at Shami returning to the side for the remaining four Tests, but given that India’s in Australia until January 7, he didn’t rule it out either. If Shami performs well in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he could prove that he’s fit for action and then might find himself on the plane for Down Under.

Mohammed Shami’s Test record in Australia