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Mohammed Shami (Source: X)
Ace pacer Mohammed Shami is ruled out of the remaining two Test matches against Australia in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024. The player had a good outing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) but later suffered a knee injury, which prevented him from being included in the Indian squad. BCCI released a statement regarding his situation and also mentioned that he'll get to play in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy only if he's fully fit.
"Based on the current medical assessment, the BCCI Medical Team has determined that his knee requires more time for controlled exposure to bowling loads. Consequently, he has not been deemed fit for consideration for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy will depend on the progress of his knee," a statement released by BCCI.
Shami is a valuable member of the Indian team and was extremely impressive during his last outing in the ODI World Cup 2023 in November. In seven games, the player clinched 24 wickets and was the tournament's leading wicket-taker. Having him around would have benefitted India and Jasprit Bumrah in the BGT series. However, the player's injury and recovery were the main reasons behind his exclusion.
India's WTC 2025 qualifications depend on last two games against Australia
India will play the 4th Test match against Australia in the Boxing Day Test match in Melbourne on December 26, 2024. Later on January 2, the last game will commence in Sydney. As per the qualification scenario, both games are equally important for India since South Africa are in a better position. India and Australia will compete for the last spot.
Moreover, Australia have their last two games against Sri Lanka, where they might have an upper edge. Hence, India will have to win the last two games in order to make their chances strong for the WTC finals. They don't have any more series left in the WTC cycle and will look to make the most of it in the upcoming games.