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Shami Injured Before Champions Trophy; Ruled Out Of Vijay Hazare Trophy Opener

Debashis Sarangi

Shami won't play Bengal's VHT opener vs Delhi [Source: @anandjha999936/X]Shami won't play Bengal's VHT opener vs Delhi [Source: @anandjha999936/X]

India's veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami won't participate in Bengal's first match of the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy tournament. The competition holds significant importance for Shami, who will put forth his candidature for the Champions Trophy by proving his form and fitness. 

However, the fast bowler suffered a huge setback before the start of the marquee event. As reported by The Times Of India (TOI), Mohammed Shami has been ruled out of Bengal's tournament opener against Delhi due to a swelled knee. 

Mohammed Shami's Long Injury Layoff Frustrates Team India

Hailed for his extraordinary fast bowling skills, Mohammed Shami played a pivotal role in India's clinical performance in the 2023 World Cup before a troubled ankle cut short his cricketing career. The Arjuna Award winner hasn't played an international match since he underwent ankle surgery. 

After recovering from the injury, Shami represented Bengal in the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, scalping sixteen wickets combined. However, just when he seemed to be on track for an international comeback, an unfortunate knee injury ruled him out of the Vijay Hazare Trophy opener. 

Recently, Indian captain Rohit Sharma broke silence on Shami's availability for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, urging the National Cricket Academy (NCA) to release an official statement to maintain transparency. 

However, for the time being, Shami's availability for the BGT as well as the Champions Trophy seems bleak, as the pacer won't be considered for selection unless and until the NCA declares him fully fit for international cricket.