Gambhir Faces Decision on Shami's T20I Future

As Gautam Gambhir takes the reins as India's new head coach, the future of veteran players in the team's T20 setup is under scrutiny. Among those facing uncertainty is Mohammed Shami, who has been a mainstay in all three formats but has seen his T20I appearances dwindle.

India's outgoing bowling coach, Paras Mhambrey, has urged Gambhir and his yet-to-be-finalized coaching staff to address Shami's future promptly. "The staff should talk to Shami and find out what he wants to do," Mhambrey said. "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?"

Shami's recent injury struggles have raised concerns about his longevity. Despite being India's top bowler in the 2023 ODI World Cup, he has not played for the team since the final against Australia. Mhambrey believes that Shami's fitness and aspirations should be prioritized.

"If Tests are the focus now, then make sure he is in the best shape for the series in Australia," Mhambrey said. "However, what Shami wants and what his body says is paramount."

Mhambrey emphasized the need for individualized fitness plans for players of different ages and abilities. "You can't compare a Shami with some youngster who has just come in," he said. "You have to understand what the value of Shami is. Do you need Shami to do the Yo-Yo or bowl those many balls in a Test and win India the game?"

Shami remains a formidable pacer, and his experience could prove invaluable in India's pursuit of the Champions Trophy and Test Championship. Gambhir and his coaching staff will need to carefully assess Shami's fitness, aspirations, and role in the team's future plans.

Tags: #MohammedShami, #GautamGambhir, #IndianCricket, #T20ICricket, #ParasMhambrey