Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami Seeks Ortho is grappling with an ankle condition, prompting medical attention. The Indian team management is optimistic about his recovery before the first Test against South Africa on December 26 at Centurion. Shami’s Test squad inclusion is marked with a star, and the BCCI mentions his ongoing medical treatment, emphasizing his availability depends on fitness. Although details about the nature of the injury are vague, it’s revealed that Shami visited a sports orthopedic specialist in Mumbai for diagnosis. The BCCI source disclosed that it’s not an on-field injury but a developed ankle condition, with Shami heading to the NCA for rehab. Despite his absence in the recent ODI World Cup matches, selectors believe in his potential recovery for the Boxing Day Test.
He earned his spot in the fifth match following Hardik Pandya’s left ankle ligament tear while attempting to halt a powerful shot in the Bangladesh game. Shami’s stellar performance, securing 24 wickets in seven matches, played a pivotal role in India’s ten-game dominance before succumbing to Australia in the final.
Recently, Shami attended a Vijay Hazare Trophy game in support of his younger brother, Mohammed Kaif, though observers noted a slight limp. His participation in the three-day intra-squad match between India Seniors and India A squads, a precursor to the Tests, remains uncertain.
For now, Shami is expected to skip white-ball games due to the upcoming seven Test matches, including a series against England. His significant role as the ‘Amroha Express’ is anticipated, particularly in subcontinental conditions favoring reverse swing.
The decision on Shami’s participation in the T20 World Cup next year hinges on his performance in the Indian Premier League, where he has had two successful seasons with the Gujarat Titans.
Easwaran Set to Participate in 1st A Test ==================
Abhimanyu Easwaran, despite sustaining four stitches on his right hand during a Vijay Hazare Trophy game, is expected to be fit for the upcoming four-day ‘Test’ clash between India A and South Africa A from December 11-14. The injury, a cut between the third and fourth fingers, required stitches, and he was advised a week’s rest. According to a CAB source, Easwaran should be ready to play by December 6, making him available for the A ‘Test’ scheduled on December 11.
IPL Governing Council Awaits Election Commission’s Decision =================
The IPL governing council convened on Thursday and decided that the schedule for the 2024 edition would only be finalized once the Election Commission of India (ECI) announces the date for next year’s general elections. The decision on whether the IPL will take place partially or entirely in India depends on the full schedule of the elections, as indicated by a member of the IPL GC.
