The first Test between India and Australia is set to commence on November 22 at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The Australian conditions are notoriously difficult for visiting teams, known for their fast pitches and unpredictable weather. India’s recent performance against New Zealand, where they suffered a humiliating 0-3 series defeat, has raised concerns about their readiness to tackle the formidable Australian side. The absence of captain Rohit Sharma, who is unavailable for selection, coupled with Shubman Gill‘s injury, further complicates India’s lineup as they seek to establish a competitive edge in this crucial series.

Silver lining for Mohammed Shami

Despite the gloomy outlook, Mohammed Shami‘s return to fitness stands out as a significant positive development for the Indian squad. After nearly a year on the sidelines due to an ankle injury sustained during the ODI World Cup final in November 2023, Shami made his competitive comeback in a Ranji Trophy match for Bengal. In his first outing back, he showcased his prowess by taking seven wickets and bowling over 40 overs, demonstrating that he is regaining his form and fitness.

Shami’s performance not only highlights his individual skill but also serves as a morale booster for the Indian team. His experience and ability to perform under pressure will be invaluable as India navigates through tough matches in Australia. The cricketing community has been vocal about his potential inclusion in the national squad, with many believing that his presence could significantly enhance India’s chances against a strong Australian team.

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Cautious optimism from team management

While there is enthusiasm surrounding Shami’s return, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and team management are adopting a cautious approach regarding his reintegration into the national squad. Shami has been named in Bengal’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy squad, signalling that he will continue to build his match fitness before making any decisions about his role in the Test series.

Morne Morkel, India’s bowling coach, emphasized the importance of closely monitoring Shami’s progress. He stated that providing adequate support to help Shami find his rhythm again is crucial.

“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 we can give him the best support to find his feet again? Working closely with the people back home. He is a world-class bowler” Morkel said in a press conference ahead of the first Test. This careful management underscores the team’s commitment to ensuring that Shami returns to peak performance without risking further injury.

Experience matters in Down under

Shami’s experience playing in Australia adds another layer of depth to his potential impact on the series. In past tours, he has proven effective on Australian pitches, which often favour fast bowlers who can extract bounce and movement. His previous performances during India’s successful tour in 2018-19, where he took 16 wickets at an average of 26.18 across four Tests, serve as a testament to what he can achieve when fit.

As India gear up for this high-stakes series against Australia, Shami’s return could be pivotal. His ability to take wickets and lead the bowling attack may provide India with the edge they need to turn their fortunes around after recent setbacks. With careful management and continued progress, Shami could soon find himself back in the Indian squad, ready to make an impact on one of cricket’s biggest stages.

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