Team India is facing setbacks in the new year as some of the renowned players such as Mohammed Shami and Suryakumar Yadav are facing fitness challenges. Unfortunately, both players are far from making a comeback to competitive cricket due to their concerned injuries.
Shami is currently suffering from an ankle injury during the 2023 ODI World Cup, undergoing treatment post-tournament. The right-arm pacer, after consulting with a specialist in Mumbai, missed the South Africa tour. As per the Indian Express, Shami is likely to sit out the initial two Tests of the home series against England which is scheduled to commence on January 25 in Hyderabad.
While the upcoming five-match Test series in the subcontinent is expected to heavily feature spinners, there’s acknowledgment of the need for rotation among pacers. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj will be rested for the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan. In their absence, bowlers like Prasidh Krishna and Mukesh Kumar, who recently participated in the South Africa series, will contribute to the Test squad.
Shami hasn’t even started to bowl, he will have to go to NCA and prove his fitness. He looks doubtful for the first two Tests against England,” a source in the Indian board told the Indian Express.
While giving an update on Suryakumar Yadav, the source said,”In Yadav’s case he will take more time than expected. After his hernia operation it might take up to eight-nine weeks for him to start training. Hopefully he will be fit during the IPL.”
