India’s pace spearhead Mohammed Shami is set to miss the upcoming five-Test series against England, with selectors leaning towards caution over his fitness and ability to handle the rigors of red-ball cricket. As the squad announcement approaches, Shami’s absence marks a significant shift for the Indian bowling lineup and signals new opportunities for emerging pacers.
Why Is Shami Missing the England Tour?
Fitness and Workload Concerns
Despite being fit enough to bowl in the IPL for Sunrisers Hyderabad, Shami has not built up the necessary workload for the demands of Test cricket. His most recent Test appearance was in the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023, and since then, he has struggled to return to full red-ball fitness.
Key factors influencing the decision:
Recent Injuries: Shami underwent ankle surgery in February 2024 and has since experienced pain in his right knee, complicating his recovery and training for longer spells.
Limited Red-Ball Preparation: While he has bowled in short IPL spells, selectors remain unsure if he can deliver the 10+ overs per day required in Test matches.
Medical Assessment: A BCCI medical team recently evaluated Shami, but unless a positive report emerges, selectors are expected to err on the side of caution and leave him out.
Who Will Replace Shami in the Test Squad?
With Shami likely sidelined, the focus shifts to India’s next generation of fast bowlers. Several names are in contention to fill the void:
Arshdeep Singh: The left-arm pacer is tipped for his maiden Test call-up, with conditions in England expected to suit his swing bowling.
Anshul Kamboj: The Haryana seamer has impressed in domestic cricket and is already part of the India A squad for the England tour.
Other Options: Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Mukesh Kumar, Yash Dayal, Khaleel Ahmed, and Harshit Rana are also being considered as part of a pace-heavy squad.
What Does This Mean for India’s Bowling Attack?
Shami’s absence will be felt, given his experience and proven record in English conditions. However, India’s selectors and new head coach Gautam Gambhir are keen to manage player workloads and invest in fresh talent for the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle.
Likely pace attack for England tour:
- Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain/lead pacer)
- Arshdeep Singh
- Prasidh Krishna
- Akash Deep or Mukesh Kumar
This new-look attack will be tested in England’s challenging conditions, but it also offers a chance for young bowlers to step up and establish themselves.
FAQs: Shami and India’s Test Squad for England
1. Why is Mohammed Shami not in the Test squad for England?
Shami is unlikely to be picked due to concerns over his fitness and inability to bowl long spells after recent injuries and limited red-ball preparation.
2. When was Shami’s last Test match for India?
His most recent Test was the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023.
3. Who are the likely replacements for Shami?
Arshdeep Singh, Anshul Kamboj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, and Mukesh Kumar are among the pacers being considered.
4. When will India’s squad for the England tour be announced?
The squad is expected to be announced on May 24, ahead of the first Test on June 20.
5. Will Shami return to Test cricket in the future?
If Shami regains full fitness and proves his ability to handle long spells, he could be considered for future Test series.
Conclusion: A New Era for India’s Pace Attack
Mohammed Shami’s likely omission from the England tour is a major development for Indian cricket, but it also opens the door for emerging talent to shine on the big stage. As selectors finalize the squad, all eyes will be on who steps up to fill Shami’s boots and lead India’s pace attack in one of the toughest assignments in world cricket. The coming series promises both challenge and opportunity for India’s next generation of fast bowlers.