India's fast bowler Mohammed Shami's return to international cricket has been postponed, as he was not included in the playing XI for the first T20I of the five-match series against England on Wednesday at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This decision ignited considerable discussion on social media, with many expressing concerns regarding Shami's fitness. However, veteran cricketer Piyush Chawla supported head coach Gautam Gambhir's choice.

Shami had been sidelined for over a year due to an ankle injury sustained during the 2023 ODI World Cup, which required surgical intervention. He made his comeback to competitive cricket in October of the previous year, participating in various domestic matches for Bengal across different formats, during which he unfortunately sustained a separate knee injury.

With the Champions Trophy in mind, India included Shami in the T20I series against England, aiming to prepare him for the ICC tournament scheduled for next month. The anticipation for his international return was high, particularly after the 34-year-old expressed his eagerness to play during a Cricket Association of Bengal event on Monday, highlighting the effort he had invested in regaining his fitness.

Despite bowling for nearly half an hour in the side nets, focusing on hitting the stumps, Shami was not selected for the match. Chawla, in a statement to the broadcaster, noted that the senior bowler was not fully fit for the game and supported the decision, emphasizing the importance of ensuring Shami's readiness for the Champions Trophy.

He remarked, "If you observe his run-up, he is still showing signs of limping. The primary objective should be the Champions Trophy and achieving full fitness for that. There are numerous matches in this series, and it is acceptable if he misses a few games."

Shami's fitness is crucial for India's prospects in the Champions Trophy, especially as the selectors remain uncertain about Jasprit Bumrah's availability for the tournament.

Was it a tactical call from India?

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina expressed his curiosity regarding the omission of Shami, suggesting it might have been a strategic decision by the Indian team. He remarked, "India has opted for three spinners. Perhaps they intend to begin with spin, which could explain his exclusion. This match was particularly significant for him, especially since it was held on his home ground."

Had India intended to field three fast bowlers on a pitch known to favour pace, Harshit Rana could have been included as the second specialist pacer in the playing XI, amidst ongoing discussions about Shami's fitness. However, the management appeared to have arrived in Kolkata with a predetermined strategy to utilize three spinners on the surface.

Read Also: "Sanju Samson's Father Breaks Down: Fears for His Son's Safety Amid KCA Controversy"

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!