File photo of Mohammed Shami and Gautam Gambhir
As Gautam Gambhir begins his role as the new coach of the Indian team, many important decisions are likely to be made regarding the future of certain veteran players. Players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharm and Ravindra Jadeja have already quit international T20 cricket, while there are a few others whose continuation in the shorter format is being questioned. One such player is Mohammed Shami, who remains available in all three formats but has not been among the top picks in T20Is of late. India’s outgoing bowling coach Paras Mhambrey has asked Gambhir and his coaching team, which is yet to be finalized, to work with Shami on his future without much delay.
“The team should talk to Shami and find out what he wants to do. He’s not young anymore, so where does he fit in and how many more years does he plan to play? comes with Gauti [Gautam Gambhir] we will figure out how to get the best out of Shami,” Mhambrey, India’s bowling coach during Rahul Dravid’s tenure as head coach, said in an interview with The online telegraph.
Shami has been struggling with injuries over the last one year. He was India’s best bowler in the 2023 ODI World Cup, but has not played for India since the final against Australia.
“If Tests are the focus now, then make sure he is in top shape for the series in Australia. However, what Shami wants and what his body tells him is paramount. But yes, a bit of cricket before the Australia tour, like he did. I had a long break,” said Mhambrey.
“Individual fitness varies and cannot be at the same level. Therefore, players have to be treated differently. You cannot compare a Shami with a young man who has just arrived. You have to understand what Shami’s value is. .Do you need Shami to Yo-Yo or bowl so many balls in a Test and win the game for India he added?
Shami remains one of the best pacers India has produced in this generation. With the Champions Trophy and Test Championship in focus, he could be key to coach Gambhir’s plans.
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