The much-awaited return of Mohammed Shami remains uncertain as he did not receive too many supporting Signals during the seasoned pacer’s long stint of varying intensity during the net session in Chennai ahead of the 2nd T20I of England tour of India 2025.
Shami who made his last appearances during the 2023 World Cup final, worked hard to find his bowling rhythm at the Chepauk, but never hit his bowling peak which makes him tough for batters.
The 2023 ODI World Cup hero was expected to feature in the playing 11 during India’s 1st T20I against England at Kolkata, but the management decided to delay his comeback.
However, Shami actively participated in Chennai Nets, starting with a light jogging session alongside assistant coach Abhishek Nayar.
He actively participated in throwing drills with fielding coach T Dilip before hitting the bowling nets closer to the Madras Cricket Club stand.
Mohammed Shami has bandaged his both legs, began with half-run up and worked up reasonable pace as well.
After bowling a few deliveries, Shami went back full distance but reowned smoothness in his appraoch and release was lacking.
He also hit the stumps few time as bowling coach Morne Morkel watched him closely while doing he wicketkeeper duties.
Meanwhile left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh too bowled at the nets when the Bengal pacer then took a few minutes break from the nets to have a chat with Morkel and head coach Gautam Gambhir.
His rhythm and sharpness gradually hit a higher gear but the whole picture was one of rustiness.
Shami was included in the India squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 after an impressive campaign in Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
The 34 year old also bowled a couple of deliveries to all-rounder Nitish Reddy who returned to the main ground along with Hardik pandya, before going back to follow fielding and catching drills.
India had a seven wicket win in first T20I with the second match to be played on January 25 at M.A. Chidambaram Stadium.
