[Exclusive] 'I'm a huge fan of Mohammed Shami' - Harbhajan Singh ahead of BGT 2024-25

Indian team is prepping up for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, scheduled to commence on November 22. But before the crucial Australia tour, India will play three Tests against New Zealand, scheduled up until November 5. India pacer, Mohammed Shami was expected to make a comeback against the Kiwis after prolonged injury recuperation, but the rumours are painting a different story of him missing out on a ticket to Australia.

India's pace battery will be lethal if Shami joins the camp alongside, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Harbhajan Singh too believes that the impact will be on a different level if the veteran joins the ranks. While highlighting the right-arm pacer’s role in the team, the former India spinner termed the 33-year-old as one of his favourites. 

Also Read: Harbhajan Singh suggests possible replacements of Rohit Sharma & Virat Kohli in India's T20I squad

“It will depend on the fitness Shami will carry. Shami is a big bowler, and I am a huge fan of him. The seam position Shami has, very few bowlers possess such precision. I would like to see him going there and performing for Team India,” said Harbhajan speaking Exclusively with CricTracker.

Akash Deep is emerging to be a good bowler: Harbhajan Singh

Indian team management seems to have been preparing a backup for the veteran pacer. Akash Deep was picked for the Indian team after his impressive performance in the first round of the Duleep Trophy 2024. He even claimed five wickets in two Tests against Bangladesh at an average of 20.40. Harbhajan, who is currently playing in the Legends League Cricket 2024, noted that the 27-year-old as another pace option for the team.  

Also Read: Shami can be good role model for Akash Deep: Zaheer

“Other than Shami, Akash Deep is the one. He has just played against Bangladesh. He is emerging to be a good bowler. Let’s hope that Shami joins Bumrah and Siraj, that would be really good. If young pacers accompany the team, they too will get the job done. Because this series is really important and winning there [Australia], will showcase your capability,” he added.