AUS vs IND 2024-25: Mohammed Shami ruled unfit by BCCI to travel for remainder of series

The BCCI Medical Team at the Centre of Excellence has been working closely with Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami on his recovery and rehabilitation after his right heel surgery. Shami has completely recovered from this heel problem.

Shami bowled 43 overs in the Ranji Trophy match for Bengal against Madhya Pradesh in November. Following this, he played in all nine games of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), where he also engaged in additional bowling sessions on the sidelines to build his bowling volume in order to get ready for the Test matches.

However, his left knee has exhibited minor swelling due to increased joint loading from his bowling workload. The swelling is on the expected lines, owing to the increased bowling after a prolonged period.

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.

Shami's Vijay Hazare campaign in doubts, Tanush Kotian set to travel to Australia

Shami will continue to undergo targeted strength and conditioning work under the guidance of the medical staff at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence and build his bowling loads needed to meet the demands of the longest format of the game. His participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy will depend on the progress of his knee.

Also Read: Reports: Tanush Kotian to join Indian squad ahead of Boxing Day Test as Ravichandran Ashwin's replacement

Meanwhile, Sportstar has reported that Tanush Kotian will be travelling down under on Tuesday to unite with the Indian team before the fourth Test. The Mumbai all-rounder is likely being called in place of veteran offie Ravichandran Ashwin, who called his retirement after the third Test. Given his playing role as an off-spin bowling all-rounder, who also has the ability to make handy contributions with the bat down the order, Kotian can be considered a like-for-like replacement for the departed Ashwin.