India secured its place in the Champions Trophy semi-finals on Monday, following New Zealand's victory over Bangladesh in Rawalpindi. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, the team has demonstrated remarkable performance throughout the tournament, achieving decisive victories against both Bangladesh and Pakistan. The outcome of Monday's match ensured that both India and New Zealand would advance to the knockout stage.

Despite this success, concerns have emerged regarding the fitness of Mohammed Shami, who is a key player in India's pace attack. During the critical match against Pakistan, Shami exited the field after his initial spell, visibly favouring his ankle, which raised immediate concerns about his condition. The sight of India's most seasoned fast bowler leaving the pitch caused anxiety among fans, especially with Jasprit Bumrah already ruled out for the tournament.

Although Shami returned to bowl eight overs, conceding 43 runs without taking a wicket, his discomfort was apparent. He had previously been in exceptional form, having taken five wickets against Bangladesh in India's opening match of the tournament. As the knockout stages draw near, his fitness will be vital to India's chances of securing the title.

In the post-match press conference, Shreyas Iyer provided reassurance that Shami was "fine," yet the image of him limping off during the game has ignited considerable discussion about whether India should risk their leading fast bowler in the upcoming final group match against New Zealand.

Former England fast bowler Darren Gough has strongly recommended that India's team management prioritize caution. With India having already secured a place in the semi-finals, Gough argues that there is no justification for taking unnecessary risks regarding Shami's fitness. He proposed that India consider resting their leading bowler for the final group match and instead field an additional spinner, taking into account the conditions in Dubai.

"They should likely rest him. They have confidence in Pakistan. With a batting lineup of that calibre, they can afford to introduce another player; adding another spinner in Dubai would be a wise choice," Gough stated in an interview with Hindustan Times during the International Masters League (IML).

"The pitch is not as conducive to batting as it is in Lahore, so incorporating another spinner is a viable option. We witnessed Hardik Pandya performing exceptionally well with the ball, so I would anticipate India opting to rest him," he added.

India favourites to win

Former England fast bowler Darren Gough has expressed his confidence in India's prospects, asserting that they are not only likely to reach the final but also stand as the leading contenders for the prestigious trophy. He praised the team's exceptional balance and highlighted the batting lineup for its outstanding performances, emphasizing that India has exhibited a level of dominance characteristic of champions.

"India appears to be very formidable, I must admit. They demonstrated their strength in the ODIs against England and commenced the Champions Trophy with two impressive performances. South Africa and New Zealand also seem quite robust. Although New Zealand is missing Boult, Southee, and Lockie Ferguson, which raises some uncertainty about their strength, they have started off well," Gough remarked.

"India and New Zealand have secured their qualifications. I believe South Africa will certainly advance. I had predicted Afghanistan, but they must secure a victory now. I sense they have the potential for an upset. If I were to predict the winner, I would choose India. They appear quite solid, and their batting lineup shows no apparent weaknesses.

“Even without Jasprit Bumrah, regarded as the best bowler in the world, India still seems overwhelmingly strong compared to the competition.”

IML is a balance of competition and nostalgia

Gough asserts that the International Masters League has achieved an ideal equilibrium between nostalgia and competitive spirit, providing fans with a unique opportunity to observe cricketing legends in action once more. Featuring retired stars from six prominent cricketing nations—India, Australia, West Indies, South Africa, England, and Sri Lanka—Gough regards the tournament as a reflection of the lasting allure of these celebrated figures.

"There remains a significant demand for former players who wish to continue participating. Fans are eager to watch them. Take Sachin Tendulkar, for instance; regardless of his performance, spectators still desire to see him play. We also have Brian Lara and Chris Gayle, who are substantial personalities. The level of competition is just as intense as it was a decade ago. Therefore, it is an exceptional tournament," remarked the former England fast bowler.

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