Rohit Expresses Optimism on Shami's Participation Pending NCA Approval
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Brisbane, Dec 18 (NationPress) India’s captain Rohit Sharma addressed inquiries regarding the availability of seasoned fast bowler Mohammed Shami for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, stating it entirely rests on the clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA).
In a statement made following India’s draw in the third Test against Australia at the Gabba, Rohit emphasized that the decision regarding Shami’s fitness lies with the NCA, as the talented bowler is currently undergoing rehabilitation post ankle surgery from November 2023.
“I believe it’s essential for someone from the NCA to provide an update about him. That’s our national cricket academy, and he is in their care. They are the ones who should give us some clarity. Although I know he is playing a lot of cricket back home, there have been some issues with his knee as well,” Rohit remarked during the post-match press briefing.
“The last thing we want is for the player to arrive here and then have to withdraw mid-game. We all know the repercussions of such occurrences,” Rohit humorously noted, alluding to the disruption caused by injuries during the series.
Shami has not participated in international matches since India’s ODI World Cup Final in November 2023. He has successfully returned to the field through domestic competitions following surgery and an extensive rehabilitation regimen, making a competitive comeback in the Ranji Trophy, followed by a notable performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
Despite Shami’s achievements in domestic cricket, the Indian team management is cautious about risking his fitness without explicit clearance from the NCA. Rohit reiterated that only a 200 percent assurance from the academy would lead to Shami’s inclusion in the squad.
“There’s no way we want to take that risk unless we are not just a hundred percent, but 200 percent sure. We are not willing to take any chances. However, as I mentioned in the last press conference, the door is open. If the NCA believes he is fit to play, I would be delighted to have him,” he added.
Currently, India’s bowling lineup heavily relies on Jasprit Bumrah, who has taken on a significant workload throughout the series. In the three Tests played so far, Bumrah has bowled long spells and delivered impactful performances, but has not received substantial support from fellow bowlers Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, and Harshit Rana.
