The expected deadline to declare the squad for the Champions Trophy is on 12th January, whereas the tournament commences on February 19th. India would take the field for the very first match on the 20th February. After what had happened at Border-Gavaskar, India will certainly focus on forming a strong Indian contingent including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah.
Positive news in the midst of uncertainty is that Mohammed Shami might be back. He has been out of the game for more than a year now, last appearing for India on November 19, 2023, Cricbuzz reported that Shami would return. The pacer had been undergoing ankle surgery since the end of the 2023 ODI World Cup, in which he emerged as India’s top wicket-taker.
Shami’s recovery has faced a few hurdles, including a knee issue that delayed his return, causing him to miss the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. However, reports suggest there is growing optimism within the BCCI regarding his availability. For Shami to be considered for selection, he must first receive a fitness clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA).
Shami has been bowling regularly for his state team, Bengal, in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy. An NCA physio has been accompanying him, and the BCCI selectors will assess his fitness further during the Vijay Hazare Trophy knockout matches in Baroda.
