Shami showed his fitness in VHT: The Indian team for the Champions Trophy 2025 could be announced anytime. Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, who has been out of the team for more than a year, has delivered a powerful performance at the perfect time. While Team India was struggling on the Australia tour, Shami consistently made his presence felt through his performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, yet the Indian management remained adamant. However, given the current situation, it will be very difficult for Agarkar and the team to ignore the veteran pacer.
Shami Proves Age and Fitness are No Bar at Vijay Hazare Trophy
Shami once again showed, during the pre-quarterfinal round of the Vijay Hazare Trophy against Haryana, that neither his age nor his form and fitness are concerns for him. Playing for Bengal, Shami claimed the most wickets — three for 61 runs in ten overs. With this performance, he sent a strong message to the selectors ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25
Mohammed Shami’s batting Today
42* (34) runs vs Madhya Pradesh pic.twitter.com/DkyBrslTxT— Samar (@SamarPa71046193) January 5, 2025
Questions Raised Over Shami’s Absence During Team India’s Struggles
Amid Team India’s struggles, numerous questions were raised about why Shami wasn’t selected for the tour to Australia. While Shami was taking wickets in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, the Indian management remained adamant. Shami took 11 wickets in 9 matches in the Mushtaq Ali Trophy and has since claimed three wickets in three Vijay Hazare Trophy matches for Bengal.
Fully fit Mohammed Shami would have made the difference. Bumrah would have got the much needed support. Hope they both will be there on the England tour. pic.twitter.com/hyFCN1vIQD
— R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) January 5, 2025
Shami’s Long Absence from Team India
The Bengal Speedster last played for Team India during the 50-over World Cup held in India in November 2023, during the final against Australia. After that, Shami underwent surgery and a prolonged recovery. It has now been 417 days since he last represented Team India.