Mumbai, Jan 11 (UNI) Seasoned pacer Mohammad Shami has been named in India's 15-member squad for the IDFC First Bank five-match T20I series against England, marking his return to Team India after recovering from an injury. The series is set to begin on January 22 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
The All-India Men’s Selection Committee announced the squad on Saturday, with Suryakumar Yadav leading the team as captain and Axar Patel serving as vice-captain. Shami's inclusion bolsters the pace attack, which also features Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. Known for his experience and ability to perform under pressure, Shami's return is expected to add depth and leadership to the bowling lineup.
The BCCI Medical Team at the Centre of Excellence closely monitored Mohammed Shami's recovery and rehabilitation following his right heel surgery. Shami demonstrated his fitness and form by bowling 43 overs in Bengal's Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh in November.
Shami also participated in all nine matches of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), supplementing his on-field performances with additional bowling sessions to gradually increase his workload in preparation for upcoming Test matches.
Despite these efforts, Shami was overlooked for the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where India suffered a 1-3 series defeat to Australia, failing to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final for the first time since its inception.
The squad presents a balanced mix of experienced players and emerging talents. Sanju Samson and Dhruv Jurel have been entrusted with wicketkeeping duties, while the batting lineup includes promising youngsters like Tilak Varma and Abhishek Sharma, along with allrounders Hardik Pandya and Axar.
India’s spin department will be led by Varun Chakravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, and Washington Sundar, ensuring a diverse array of options. The inclusion of players like Rinku Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy further highlights the team’s focus on grooming young talent for the future.
The series, spread across venues in Kolkata, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Ahmedabad, promises a high-octane contest as India aims to assert its dominance against a competitive England side.
Team India:
Suryakumar Yadav (C), Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel (vc), Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammad Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Washington Sundar, Dhruv Jurel (wk)
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