The debate surrounding pace-star Mohammed Shami ‘s return to Team India has once again intensified in quick fashion. Now, former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan has made his opinion clear. He believes that if the veteran pacer, Shami, is fully fit and available to play, India should definitely include him in the team.
What did Zaheer say about Shami?
Shami has been out of the Indian team for quite some time. In this period, he performed in domestic cricket and tried to prove his fitness. Despite this, the selectors did not include him in the team’s plans.
Now, Zaheer Khan has supported Shami’s return. Zaheer said that if a player is performing well, he should definitely be included in the team’s plans. Zaheer said, “When a player performs well, he should definitely be included in Team India’s planning. Shami should play in the World Cup and be a part of the team.”
‘If Shami is fit, he should get a chance’
Zaheer clarified that the final decision rests with the captain, head coach, and selectors. However, in his opinion, there should be no reason to leave an experienced fast bowler like Shami out of the team if he is fully fit. He said that if Shami is fit and available, India should take advantage of his experience. Especially on a tour like South Africa, Shami’s bowling could be very useful for the team.
The biggest debate surrounding Shami’s return has been his fitness. The selectors have also expressed concerns about his fitness. This issue even led to a verbal exchange between Shami and chief selector Ajit Agarkar. Shami himself addressed the questions about his fitness. He stated that if he can bowl a full day in the Ranji Trophy, he can also bowl 10 overs in ODIs. With this statement, Shami made it clear that he considers himself fit and ready to return to Team India.
Question on team management’s decision
Zaheer Khan’s statement comes at a time when the Indian team is giving more opportunities to young fast bowlers. The team management is looking to build a pool of fast bowlers for the future. Given Shami’s age and fitness, there is debate about his place in the team. However, Zaheer believes that experience should not be overlooked. If Shami is fit and performing consistently, India should utilize his services.
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