Border-Gavaskar Trophy | ‘There will be tough calls’: Will Mohammed Shami get the go-ahead?

Mohammed Shami gave enough reasons for Indians to cheer during India's remarkable 2023 World Cup campaign but has since been sidelined by an ankle injury with no clear timeline for his return.

Shami underwent Achilles tendon surgery in February, which ruled him out of both the IPL and the recently concluded T20 World Cup, and he is now in rehabilitation. Recent updates from his social media handles show that his leg is out of the cast and the pacer appears to be regaining agility, a promising sign for Indian cricket.

Nonetheless, during an interview with The Telegraph, the outgoing Indian bowling coach Paras Mhambrey urged the new head coach, Gautam Gambhir, to assess Shami's future carefully.

"The staff should talk to Shami and find out what he wants to do. He's no longer young, so where does he fit in and how many more years does he look to play? How do we use him smartly? I'm sure whoever comes with Gauti [Gautam Gambhir] will find out how to get the best of Shami," he said.

At 33, Shami may no longer be among the youngest fast bowlers in India and has seen a decrease in his T20I prominence, but has much to contribute in ODIs and especially in Test matches. While India is about to face a demanding Test season ahead, Mhambrey suggested that Shami should play some matches to regain his form before the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year.

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With Gambhir assuming control, it is no secret that pivotal decisions regarding the futures of several veteran players are anticipated. Sources privy to the development said a decision on players' fitness will be reached after careful consideration with the new coach at the helm.

"A lot of discussions taking place. We can't comment about Shami, but there will be tough calls. As you know, the main idea behind his appointment (Gambhir as the coach) was to ensure a smooth transition within the squad. It's time for youngsters to take over. We are yet to reach a decision, but expect it to happen very soon," a BCCI official told Mid-Day.

The five-Test series between India and Australia, starting in November, is set to be a highlight of the current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. For India, this series is particularly significant as they aim for a third consecutive series victory on Australian soil.

Meanwhile, Shami, who was unfortunately sidelined during the last Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia due to a fractured arm sustained in the Adelaide Test, missed out on India's remarkable comeback. Now suppose Shami participates in a few games against Bangladesh and New Zealand in the coming months, he will be better positioned to support Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj in Australia later.

As Mhambrey put it, it is truly crucial to clarify Shami's role within the team, whether he is needed as a workhorse or a primary wicket-taker.

"If Tests are the focus now, then make sure he is in the best shape for the series in Australia. However, what Shami wants and what his body says is paramount. But yes, some cricket is needed before the Australia tour as he has had a long break."

With 229 wickets from 64 Tests, Shami is an experienced veteran on whom the team relies heavily. As emerging pacers continue to make their mark on the 22-yards, it is important to define his role clearly, ensuring that his contributions are maximised and align with the team's evolving needs. The onus is on the main man, you Gambhir!