Mohammad Shami Faces Setback Ahead of Test Series
Veteran pacer Mohammad Shami’s hopes of an international comeback were dashed as he was excluded from the 15-man squad for India’s Test series against South Africa. The two-match series will be held at home from November 14 to November 26. The squad was announced on November 5.
Team Squad Updates
India recalled wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant following his recovery from a foot injury. However, Shami did not make the cut despite his strong Ranji Trophy performance.
Shami’s Recent Domestic Performance
- Claimed 15 wickets in three Ranji Trophy matches this season.
- Took seven wickets for Bengal against Uttarakhand and eight wickets against Gujarat.
- Both matches were played at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Shami’s Recent International Play
Shami last appeared for India in the Champions Trophy final in March 2024 in the UAE. He played his final T20I a month before that but has not featured in Test cricket since the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023.
Comparing Shami and Jasprit Bumrah's ODI Stats
Earlier comparisons focused on their Test and T20I performances. Here, Shami’s One Day International (ODI) records after 89 matches are compared with those of Jasprit Bumrah, who has also played 89 ODIs.
Jasprit Bumrah’s ODI Record
- 149 wickets in 89 matches
- Average of 23.55
- Economy rate of 4.59
- 30 wickets in 21 matches specifically against Australia, with an average of 34.13
"In 89 ODIs, Bumrah has picked up 149 wickets at an average of 23.55 and an economy rate of 4.59. Of his scalps, 30 have come in 21 matches against Australia at an average of 34.13."
Shami’s ODI stats after 89 matches stand as a benchmark for comparison, highlighting the competitive overlap between these two leading Indian pacers.
Author’s summary: Mohammad Shami’s exclusion from the Test squad contrasts with his strong domestic form, while his ODI stats provide a key comparison with fellow pacer Jasprit Bumrah.