India vs England T20Is Returns Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami Returns for India vs England T20Is: Squad Announcement
Mohammed Shami, the seasoned Indian pacer, is all set to make a grand return to international cricket in the five-match T20I series against England, starting January 22 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. This marks Shami's first appearance for India since the ODI World Cup final on November 19, 2023, where India faced Australia.
A Much-Awaited Comeback
Shami's journey back to the national team hasn’t been easy. After suffering an ankle injury that required surgery and a subsequent knee swelling, he had been sidelined for several months. The pacer, however, showcased his determination by playing domestic cricket for Bengal in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Ranji Trophy, proving his fitness and form.
His inclusion in the squad is seen as a major boost to India’s pace attack, especially with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj rested for the T20I series. Shami’s experience and ability to handle high-pressure situations will be crucial as India prepares for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.
Changes and Surprises in Squad Selection
The squad selection for the England T20I series has brought both excitement and questions:
- Vice-Captaincy for Axar Patel: Axar Patel has been named the vice-captain, a recognition of his stellar all-round performance in the T20 World Cup 2024.
- Exclusion of Rishabh Pant: Star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been left out of the squad, with no official explanation from the BCCI.
- Emerging Talent: Promising players like Nitish Kumar Reddy and Dhruv Jurel have been included. Reddy impressed during the Australia Test series, while Jurel takes over from Jitesh Sharma as the second wicketkeeper.
- Shivam Dube Dropped: Despite being a consistent performer, all-rounder Shivam Dube did not make it to the squad.
Key Players in the Spotlight
- Sanju Samson: In red-hot form, Samson has established himself as the first-choice wicketkeeper. His back-to-back T20I centuries last year make him a key asset.
- Rinku Singh and Tilak Varma: The young batters are expected to provide stability and firepower to the middle order.
- Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravi Bishnoi: As spin specialists, they’ll play an essential role in controlling the game during the middle overs.
India’s Squad for England T20Is
Captain: Suryakumar Yadav
Vice-Captain: Axar Patel
Squad: Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Washington Sundar, Dhruv Jurel (wk).
Looking Ahead
With the series against England serving as a preparatory ground for the Champions Trophy, all eyes will be on Shami’s performance and the team’s new combination under Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership. Will this revamped squad deliver a strong start in the new year? Fans are eagerly waiting to find out!
Post a Comment