Indian fast bowler Mohammad Shami’s absence from the first T20I against England has raised some eyebrows. The 34-year-old fastman was expected to make his comeback in international cricket through this game, but he did not play the game.

former indian cricketer Akash Chopra Questioning the team management’s decision not to let Shami play in this match. Chopra claimed that Shami is ready for the run-up and is expected to play. However, the team management did not let him play.

The former India opener also felt that Shami was not fully recovered and that was the main reason why he did not play in the tournament. He believes Shami’s fitness is important for the Indian team as he is one of the team’s important bowlers.

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Aakash Chopra breaks silence on Mohammad Shami’s absence

Aakash Chopra spoke about Mohammed Shami’s absence from the first T20I in a video on his YouTube channel. He felt Shami did not play despite taking the run-up mark, raising questions about his fitness.

“It’s a big topic. It’s important for all of us because no one said anything. There may have been something said in the (post-game) press conference but I didn’t know it at the time of the recording. (Where is) Mohammad Shami, what are you doing?” Chopra said.

“He had huge straps on his legs. He had his run-up marked and we thought he would definitely play, but Shami didn’t play. Shami’s playing is crucial for everyone’s health, including Yours, mine and the health of Team India,” he famously said.

It is worth noting that Shami was expected to make his comeback in international cricket through this game, but India opted for three overs of spin, Ardeep Singh As the only fast bowling specialist. Hardik Pandya Used as a second seamer for the new ball.

Why didn’t Mohammad Shami play?

Aakash Chopra feels that Mohammed Shami’s fitness is not at 100% and hence he is not playing in this match. He feels that if Shami fully recovers, the Indian team will select him.

“One game has gone and there are only four left. He hasn’t played the first game yet and if he doesn’t play the only thing that means is he’s not 100 per cent fit. If he’s fit there’s no excuse It will work, the pitch is not good, you want to play spin, you also want to play Ravi Bishnoi and want to go with three spinners,” Chopra said.

Mohammad Shami’s comeback is highly anticipated by the Indian fans as he is crucial for India to win the Champions League and the upcoming Champions Trophy. series. However, he did not participate in the game, and the team management did not give a clear answer regarding his absence.

Mohammad Shami’s last international match

Mohammad Shami has not played an international match since the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia in November. He was injured during the ODI World Cup but continued to play with severe pain.

He eventually underwent surgery in early 2024 and missed the IPL 204 season and the 2024 T20 World Cup. He was expected to return to the international scene during the Test season on home soil in India, but his return was delayed due to knee swelling during recovery.

Shami has been named in India’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 and is expected to play an important role with the ball. With Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness still pending, Shami’s role will be crucial in the tournament.