test captain of india Shubman Gill Veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami’s prolonged absence from the Test team has been highlighted, acknowledging both Shami’s exceptional quality and the strong performances from India’s emerging fast bowlers. Addressing the reports in Kolkata, Gill explained why the experienced bowler has not returned to the team yet despite his impressive domestic form.
Shami last played a Test in June 2023 against Australia, and although he made a brief international comeback earlier this year – in the ODI series against England and the Champions Trophy – injuries have repeatedly hampered his return to the longest format.
“There are not many bowlers of Shami bhai’s quality”: Shubman Gill
Addressing the media in Kolkata, Gill acknowledged Shami’s stature and also stressed the importance of rewarding current form.
“There are not many bowlers of Shami bhai’s quality. But we cannot ignore the performances of players like Akash Deep and Prasidh. As we have seen, Bumrah and Siraj are also performing well.” Gill said.
He said the selectors are in a better position to decide when Shami can make a full comeback based on the conditions and team requirements for the upcoming series.
Shami has been ruled out of India’s two-match Test series against South Africa, raising questions over his future in the Test setup. However, Gill suggested that the door is still open, and the selection will depend on site-specific strategies.
India’s fast bowling group has evolved considerably in Shami’s absence. Famous Krishna, sky lamp, Jasprit Bumrah And Mohammed Siraj has consistently produced strong performances in red-ball cricket, giving the selectors a number of reliable options.
“South Africa are the champions – it won’t be easy to beat them”: Gill
Looking ahead to the high-stakes Test series against South Africa, Gill admitted that India’s challenge is tough. The Proteas come to India as the defending World Test champions after clinching the title with victory over Australia at Lord’s earlier this year.
“I think these two Test matches are very important for our chances of qualifying for the WTC final. South Africa are a very good team – they are the champions. When the difficult moments came, we handled them well. The pitch is good, a typical Indian wicket.” Gill said.
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