As Team India approaches a crucial Test season in 2024-25, Mohammed Shami’s return to the bowling attack could prove indispensable. After a long recovery from an ankle injury sustained during the ODI World Cup in November 2023, Shami’s presence is eagerly awaited as India embarks on a busy Test calendar, beginning with a series against Bangladesh in September. Shami’s track record, skillset, and leadership make him a key figure as India looks to assert its dominance in the Test arena.
Having been out of action for several months, Shami is now in the final stages of his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. After beginning to bowl again recently, he is carefully building up his bowling workload as he prepares for a potential return in the Duleep Trophy. This tournament could serve as an important fitness test ahead of India’s first Test against Bangladesh on September 19.
Shami’s Stellar Test Record
Shami’s impact on Test cricket is undeniable. Over 64 matches, he has claimed 229 wickets at an impressive average of 27.74. His ability to break partnerships and deliver game-changing spells has been one of the major factors behind India’s Test success in recent years. His haul includes 14 four-wicket performances, six five-wicket hauls, and two ten-wicket match performances—indicative of his ability to take wickets in clusters and turn the tide in India’s favor.
Shami has been at his best in high-pressure series. In the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, he took 21 wickets in four Tests at an average of 22.19, including a match-winning spell of 6/56 in the second Test. Similarly, in the 2021 Test series against England, he claimed 15 wickets over four matches, helping India to a 3-1 series victory. Shami’s ability to thrive against top-tier opposition is a testament to his skill and competitive edge.
Skill and Versatility
Shami’s effectiveness lies in his ability to combine pace with swing, consistently challenging even the most experienced batsmen. He excels at moving the ball both ways, which allows him to exploit both overcast conditions and flat tracks. Whether bowling in seaming conditions abroad or on spin-friendly Indian pitches, Shami has the rare ability to adapt his game to suit the environment, making him a true all-weather bowler.
Mentorship and Experience
Shami’s extensive experience in Test cricket provides invaluable support for younger bowlers in the squad, such as Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, and Shardul Thakur. His guidance and ability to handle pressure in tight situations make him not just a key player but also a mentor within the team. His influence on India’s younger pace bowlers will play a significant role in shaping the future of Indian fast bowling.
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The Shami-Bumrah Duo
One of the key factors in Shami’s importance to India is his partnership with Jasprit Bumrah. Together, they form one of the most lethal fast-bowling duos in world cricket. Their ability to complement each other—Shami’s raw pace and swing combined with Bumrah’s accuracy and yorkers—has troubled many top-order batsmen across the world. Their synergy will be crucial for India in the upcoming Test season, especially in challenging away series.
Leadership in the Bowling Unit
When Bumrah has been unavailable, Shami has seamlessly stepped up to lead the attack, proving his leadership credentials. He has taken charge of the bowling unit, offering both stability and aggression when required. His leadership has been vital in maintaining the balance in India’s bowling attack, ensuring that the team does not lose its competitive edge even in the absence of key players.
The Path Forward: Shami’s Role in 2024-25
India’s upcoming Test season includes the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy as well as several other challenging series. Shami’s experience, versatility, and ability to lead from the front will be crucial to India’s success. His fitness will need to be carefully managed to ensure that he can contribute effectively across a long season.
Mohammed Shami is not just a bowler who can take wickets—he is a match-winner. His pace, swing, experience, adaptability, and leadership make him indispensable to India’s Test setup. As India looks to dominate the 2024-25 season, having Shami in top form will be key to their aspirations of becoming the number one Test team in the world.
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