The Indian men’s cricket team is gearing up for a five-match Test series in Australia, set to begin on November 22, 2024, as part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Matches will be held in Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, India aims to secure a third consecutive Test series win on Australian soil, a feat that would add to their victories in 2018-19 and 2020-21.
However, as the series approaches, former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary has voiced concerns over the selection of pace spearhead Mohammed Shami for the red-ball assignment. Tiwary warned the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) against considering Shami if he is not fully fit, stressing the importance of long-term player management.
Shami, who last played for India in the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup, has been out of action due to an ankle injury. There have been discussions about his potential selection for the upcoming India-New Zealand Test series, but Tiwary urged caution. In an interview, Tiwary said, “How can you take him to Australia if he is 80% fit? There are chances of a breakdown if he is 80% fit. If anyone is not 100% fit, then they shouldn’t play.”
Tiwary emphasized the significance of being fully fit when representing the country, not only to avoid injury but also to ensure a long-term contribution to Indian cricket. “You are representing India. You are not doing this for any state or club cricket team,” he added.
Tiwary further pointed out that India has a strong bowling unit with enough depth to fill the gap if Shami isn’t available, though he conceded that no bowler could replicate Shami’s experience and quality. “You should also look at the rest of the players; otherwise, they will get upset,” he noted, suggesting that other bowlers should be given opportunities in case Shami is not fully fit.
Do you agree with Manoj Tiwary?
