Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra provided a candid assessment of Mohammed Shami's disappointing return to international cricket. The experienced pacer was recalled to the Indian squad for the T20I and ODI series against England after demonstrating his fitness in domestic competitions. However, in his first ODI series following the 2023 ODI World Cup, Shami's performance fell short of expectations, as he took two wickets in two matches with an average of 52.00.

Chopra expressed concerns regarding India's fast-bowling options for the upcoming Champions Trophy, particularly in light of the uncertainty surrounding Jasprit Bumrah's availability. He remarked on Shami's return, indicating that he has not yet regained his peak form.

"How confident are we in our fast-bowling options? The reality is that Jasprit Bumrah's absence is a significant setback. Based on our observations so far, it appears that our fast bowling is a vulnerable area. Mohammed Shami's comeback has not yet reached its full potential, and we are hopeful he will improve," Chopra stated on his YouTube channel.

The former cricketer noted a decline in Shami's pace and suggested that Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who has been out of favor and last played for India in 2022 against New Zealand, would be a superior choice at a speed of 132 kph.

"The pace has noticeably diminished. Bhuvneshwar Kumar at 132 kph would be exceptional, as he is quite effective at that speed. Conversely, when Mohammed Shami bowls at 132 kph, he appears to be underperforming, as his bowling style thrives at 137 or 138 kph, which brings out his best," Chopra added.

‘If Adil Rashid hits Shami for three consecutive fours…’

Shami also struggled to make an impact in the preceding T20I series, where he was given multiple opportunities by the team management in the five-match series, ultimately taking three wickets at an average of 16.67.

The leading fast bowler was also struck for a hat-trick of boundaries by lower-order batsman Adil Rashid in the second ODI, a situation that Chopra believes signals potential concerns for the Indian team, particularly as Shami did not complete his full allocation of overs in either match.

"Shami is currently not performing at his best. If Adil Rashid can hit him for three consecutive fours, it indicates he is not yet prepared. He is conceding runs. The captain is not allowing him to bowl his full ten overs, which is troubling. If he is not given the opportunity to bowl ten overs, when will he be able to find his rhythm? He is somewhat distant from his peak form," he stated.

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