Shami’s Test comeback gains momentum despite selection doubts

As the selectors get ready to discuss on India’s Test squad for the one-off match against Afghanistan — and more importantly, who will partner Mohammed Siraj in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah — all eyes are once again on Mohammed Shami and whether he finally finds a place in the squad.

With an impressive haul of 36 wickets in the Ranji Trophy, 16 scalps in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and 15 more in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shami (nine wickets from 10 IPL games) has certainly made a strong statement that he is far from finished. And with the board keen to reassess him for the Test format because of his ability to generate late swing, the selectors have finally ready to discuss his name seriously.

Although the broader consensus within the selection committee still leans towards promoting youngsters rather than returning to the tried-and-tested Shami, sources told CricBlogger that a genuine push for his inclusion has started gathering momentum.

It is also understood that Shami’s domestic performances, while impressive, were never going to be the sole criterion for his selection because of the stature he enjoys within Indian cricket. Had he failed at the domestic level, however, the selectors would certainly have taken note.

“He is a proven player,” a source said of Mohammed Shami.

With Shami himself believed to be under the impression that the Indian team management no longer has complete faith in him because of his frequent injury breakdowns, his fitness throughout the domestic season and the IPL has been extremely impressive.

And with the team management expected to rotate pacers during the upcoming Test series against England — especially to manage the workload of Jasprit Bumrah — the need for experienced senior pros like Shami still remains significant.

However, sources within the team management also believe that investing in and grooming youngsters remains a better long-term option rather than turning back to Shami once again.

Even those who have closely monitored Shami and watched him perform during the domestic season are not entirely convinced about pushing strongly for his return. But if Karun Nair can be handed an opportunity to make a comeback to the Test side, Shami too remains well within his rights to wear the India whites once again.