Lucknow: Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan asserts that seasoned pacer Mohd Shami is crucial for India's prospects in the forthcoming Champions Trophy.

"We are eager to see Shami return, as he is vital for India's success in the Champions Trophy later this month. With Jasprit Bumrah and the promising Arshdeep Singh in the lineup, the Indian pace attack appears quite formidable," Zaheer remarked to HT in Lucknow on Tuesday evening.

Making a comeback after an injury hiatus this domestic season, Shami performed admirably in white-ball cricket for Bengal and demonstrated his fitness during India's recent 4-1 victory in the T20I series against England.

The Indian pacer last participated in an international match in November 2023, where he sustained a heel injury during the ODI World Cup, concluding the tournament as the leading wicket-taker with 24 wickets in just seven matches.

"I am pleased to see Shami back in action during the series against England, and if he maintains his form in the Champions Trophy, it will significantly ease the task for Rohit Sharma and his team," Zaheer stated, further noting, "The team's composition will be crucial, as we need to achieve the right balance for the Champions Trophy."

"I believe that in addition to India, teams such as Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa are also performing well and have a strong chance of reaching the semi-finals," Zaheer added, while expressing uncertainty about the hosts, Pakistan, stating that they are currently not playing at their best.

Zaheer Khan commended young left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, who will be partnering with Bumrah and Shami in utilizing the new white ball during the Champions Trophy. He noted that Singh has become an essential bowler for India in white-ball formats.

“Arshdeep is performing exceptionally well in white-ball cricket. He has a keen understanding of how to leverage the playing conditions effectively. His achievement as the leading wicket-taker for India in T20Is is commendable. With each match, he is gaining confidence, which is beneficial for Team India,” Zaheer remarked.

Despite India's 3-1 defeat to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy being a significant setback, Zaheer is optimistic about the team's prospects in the upcoming five-match series against England starting in June.

“The conditions in England are favourable for Indian pacers, and all four have been performing admirably, particularly Akash Deep,” Zaheer added.

Additionally, as the mentor of the Lucknow Super Giants, Zaheer aims to inspire the Rishabh Pant-led team to achieve success in the league this season.

“I prefer not to dwell on the past experiences of LSG over the last three seasons. I am eager for a promising future this time around. We possess a well-rounded team under Pant's leadership, and I am confident that the team will thrive,” he stated.

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