Mohammed Shami May Miss England Tour, Struggling to Finish Run-Up

Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami might miss the upcoming England Test series. A report suggests that Shami is not fully fit and is having trouble finishing his bowling run-up. The five-match Test series is scheduled to begin on June 20.

Shami Still Not at His Best After Injury

Shami has not looked in rhythm since returning from the Achilles tendon injury he suffered during the 2023 ODI World Cup. The injury kept him out of action for several months. A BCCI source told The Times of India that Shami still doesn’t look fully recovered.

“He struggles to complete his run-up and the ball doesn’t carry to the keeper like before,” said the source.

Shami often goes back to the dressing room after short spells, indicating he may still be in discomfort.

Poor IPL 2025 Performance Adds to Worries

Shami played for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2025. He took only six wickets in nine matches with a poor average of 56.16. SRH did not pick him for two games. His lack of form in the IPL adds to the selection dilemma, although IPL performances usually don’t decide Test selections.

India Needs Shami or Bumrah for Every Test

India’s plan was to rotate Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami during the England tour. But if Shami continues to struggle and Bumrah needs rest, India may face a serious issue. Selectors are concerned about managing the workload of their senior fast bowlers.

Shami’s Test Record in England

Shami has played 14 Test matches in England and has taken 42 wickets at an average of 40.50. He has not taken a five-wicket haul there, which makes his record average compared to his overall career stats.

Recent International Comeback

Shami returned to international cricket earlier this year. In the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, he took nine wickets in five matches, including a five-wicket haul against Bangladesh. However, he went wicketless in his T20I comeback match against England.

India Yet to Announce England Tour Squad

The BCCI has not yet announced India’s squad or the new captain for the England series. Rohit Sharma has retired from Tests, and Virat Kohli has informed the board of his decision to step away from the longest format. The squad is expected to be revealed on May 16.

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