Ishant Sharma looks in good shape ahead of tour Down Under

Onecricket

If the words of a BCCI observer is to be believed, Indian Test specialist Ishant Sharma “is looking good” after the lanky speedster bowled two long spells at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday under the watchful eyes of NCA chief Rahul Dravid and chairman of selectors Sunil Joshi. Ishant has been named in the preliminary Test squad but he has to prove his fitness before getting a nod from the bosses.

Ishant is recovering from an abdominal muscle tear which he sustained during the recently concluded IPL. Ishant bowled two long spells and most of it came at full tilt. These are promising signs for India going into a high octane test series. However, a final decision on his fitness will be taken afterwards. Ishant bowled on the side pitches for 45 minutes during the lunch break of a 50 overs side corporate cricket match and then bowled close to an hour following the conclusion of the match.

He also did his routine stretches and also returned for a brief fielding session of high and flat catches. One of the most vital cogs in the Indian pace attack in the longest format, Ishant is hoping to regain full fitness before the Australia series. What stood out as far as Ishant is concerned is the way he bowled. He didn’t look in any discomfort what so ever but it might be too early to come to a conclusion.

Sharma has been following his rehabilitation process at the National Cricket Academy at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. It was during his stint with the Delhi Capitals that he complained of a pain in the rib cage during a training session in Dubai. He had to pack his bags and return home after playing just a solitary match for DC this season.

If declared fit, Ishant can start bowling from November 18 following which he needs to prove his match fitness to travel Down Under. If proven match fit, Ishant will travel to Australia separately to join the team.

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