I would’ve taken Shami to Australia – Ravi Shastri

Shami's Fitness Handling Questioned by Ravi Shastri

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has expressed his concerns over Mohammed Shami's fitness management and communication regarding his recovery. Shami, who underwent ankle surgery in February 2024, was not selected for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, despite playing domestic cricket for Bengal prior to the tour.

Shastri, in an interview with the ICC Review, stated that he would have taken Shami to Australia and monitored his rehabilitation with the team. He criticized the lack of proper communication about Shami's recovery status and expressed his surprise at the decision to exclude him from the tour.

Shami's inclusion, according to Shastri, would have not only added experience but also eased the pressure on Jasprit Bumrah. Bumrah, who had an impressive series with 32 wickets, bowled over 150 overs and suffered a back spasm during the SCG Test, leaving India a pacer short.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting also shared similar thoughts, stating that Shami's presence could have made a significant difference in the series. Ponting was surprised by Shami's exclusion, especially considering India had another seam-bowling all-rounder in their squad.

Processed Text:

• Ravi Shastri questions Mohammed Shami's fitness handling and communication
• Shami underwent ankle surgery in February 2024, missed Border-Gavaskar Trophy
• Shastri would have taken Shami to Australia, monitored his rehabilitation
• Shami's inclusion could have eased pressure on Jasprit Bumrah
• Bumrah bowled over 150 overs, suffered a back spasm during SCG Test
• Ricky Ponting shares similar thoughts, believes Shami's presence could have made a difference