On March 9, India and Australia will clash in the fourth and final Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy. Mohammed Shami is expected to return to the Playing XI after being rested in the Indore Test due to workload management.
To ensure the pace bowlers, who will play in the ODI World Cup and IPL, are properly spaced out, the Indian team management made a decision in consultation with medical staff. Consequently, Shami was left out of the third Test, which India lost by 9 wickets. Instead, Umesh Yadav was brought in as the second pacer after Mohammed Siraj for the Test played at the Holkar Stadium in Indore.
SHAMI MIGHT REPLACE SIRAJ
As Siraj was only bowled 24 overs in the first three games and is expected to participate in all three upcoming ODIs against Australia from March 17 to 22, he may not feature in the final game at Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera.
On the other hand, Shami is the top-performing pacer from both teams. He has taken seven wickets from around 30 overs in the 2 Tests he played. This pitch may be suitable for reverse swing, making Shami an essential player in the Playing XI.
ICC match referee Chris Broad criticized the Holkar Stadium in Indore for its “poor” pitch. So, Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) is unlikely to take any chances with the pitch and risk its reputation. The GCA will likely avoid preparing a pitch that could provoke a negative response from the ICC.
A Gujarat Cricket Association source said:
“Last Ranji game over here, Railways scored 500 plus (508) batting first and Gujarat, although had innings defeat, scored 200 plus in both innings. It won’t be too different this time.”
Currently, India lead the series 2-1. If they win the last test, they’ll qualify for the WTC Final. Otherwise, India will have to keep an eye of Sri Lanka tour of New Zealand.
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