Indian test captain Shubman Gill The veteran pacer did not shy away from Mohammad Shami’s Test setup, acknowledging both Shami’s exceptional quality and strong performances from India’s emerging fast bowlers. Addressing reports in Kolkata, Gill explained why the seasoned bowler is yet to return to the squad despite his stellar domestic form.
Shami played a Test against Australia in June 2023, and although he made a brief international comeback earlier this year – injuries in England and the Champions Trophy Odi series have repeatedly prevented him from returning to the longest format.
“There are not many boxers of Shami Bhai’s quality”: Shubman Gill
Addressing the media in Kolkata, Gill acknowledged Shami’s stature while stressing the importance of rewarding the current form.
“Shami Bhai’s quality is not much. But we can’t ignore the performances of players like Akash Deep and Prasidh. Bumrah and Siraj, we are doing well as we can see.” Gill said.
He added that the selectors should be better placed to decide whether Shami can make a full comeback depending on the conditions and team requirements for the upcoming series.
Shami has been ruled out of India’s two-match Test series against South Africa, raising questions over his future in the Test outfit. However, Gill suggested that the door is still open and that the choice will depend on location-specific strategies.
India’s fast bowling line-up has improved significantly in Shami’s absence. Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah Mohammad Siraj has consistently delivered strong performances in red-ball cricket, giving the selectors more than one viable option.
“South Africa are the champions – they won’t be easy to beat”: Gill
Looking ahead to the high-stakes Test series against South Africa, Gill admitted that India’s challenge was steep. The HeaTeas arrived in India as the reigning Test champions of the world with a win over Australia at Lord’s.
“I think these two Test matches are very important for our chances of qualifying for the WTC final. South Africa are a very good team. We handled them well when they were champions. Gill said.
Read: Shehnaaz Gill of Bigg Boss fame makes a big revelation on her relationship with Shubman Gill
