‘Not needed as much…’: Report reveals reason behind Mohammed Shami’s absence from T20I series against England

A recent report has revealed a source stating that Mohammed Shami has been put to rest by BCCI in order to keep him fresh for the ODI series against England, and the Champions Trophy that follows.

The Indian cricket club finally celebrates as Mohammed Shami marked his return to the national team after an absence of over an year. However, Shami has only been sitting in the benches since the beginning of the England series, with Arshdeep Singh being the single pacer in the playing XI.

Even though Shami holds importance, the team management has kept him far from being selected. However, a report has now revealed the reason for which Shami has not been given a single chance in the series till now.

Shami’s last appearance for India was in 2023 ODI World Cup, but since then he has been struggling with injuries. Considering India’s upcoming assignments especially the Champions Trophy, the team management is reported to keep Shami fresh for the ODI series.

Though there is no certainty over Shami partaking in the remainder of T20I series, he is sure to get a place in playing XI for the ODI assignment.

“Shami has shed two kgs from what he weighed before his injury. He is bowling at full tilt. He is not needed as much in the T20 matches. But he should be good to go once the ODIs come around,” a source stated.

As Jasprit Bumrah’s participation in the Champions Trophy is not guaranteed, the BCCI going with the safe route with Shami is understandable, especially considering the importance that the veteran pacer has in the 50-over format.

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