Mohammed Shami and Team India bowling coach Morne Morkel at the Eden Gardens. (Screengrabs)
In a heartfelt video shared by the BCCI on their social media handles, Mohammed Shami was seen receiving a warm hug from Team India bowling coach Morne Morkel at Eden Gardens.
Shami is making a comeback after a long injury layoff. The Indian speedster last played for India in the 2023 World Cup final against Australia in Ahmedabad, after which he was sidelined due to an ankle injury that required surgery.
The 34-year-old returned to cricket for the Ranji Trophy and also played in the T20 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and 50-over Vijay Hazare Trophy for Bengal. However, he did not make it for India’s disastrous tour of Australia due to knee swelling upon his return to domestic cricket.
In Shami’s absence, the team lacked a second fast bowler besides pace spearhead and stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah to consistently pressure the Australian batsmen.
He’s BACK 💪🏻
Team India 🇮🇳
Mohd. Shami 😎
Eden Gardens 🏟️Just perfect 👌🏻#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @MdShami11 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/PwCuEOcaDA
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 20, 2025
In the video, Shami can be seen meeting Morne Morkel, likely the first time since the South African joined Team India’s coaching staff. Morkel gave Shami a big hug.
Shami was then welcomed by the team in a huddle before the training session.
After going through the regular drill to loosen up, Shami was seen gearing up.
Indian pacer Mohammed Shami
It seemed like everyone, including Team India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel, is a big fan of Shami’s upright seam position. Shami spent some time with the bowling coach explaining his artistry.
A few minutes later, Shami marked his run-up and started bowling to the batters in the nets with assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate keeping a close watch.
Shami was then accompanied by all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with both seemingly discussing their bowling plans.
The video concluded with Shami signing some autographs for fans while walking back to the pavilion.
India will take on England in the first T20I of the five-match series in Kolkata on Wednesday.
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