Mohammed Shami, a fast bowler for Team India, has been ruled out from the T20I series against Australia after testing positive for Covid-19. On September 20, the Indian squad will face Australia at Mohali for its opening Twenty20 match. On September 23, Nagpur will host the second T20 and the third Twenty20 will be played in Hyderabad on 25th September.
A BCCI official early on today stated that “Yes, Shami has tested Covid-19 positive. But there is nothing to worry about as the symptoms are mild. But he will have to remain in isolation and will be able to rejoin the squad once he tests negative. It is unfortunate but that is how life is.” BCCI officials also stated that it seemed hopeful that he would be fit for the next series against Australia.
When asked about the possible return of Shami the BCCI officials stated that “We are expecting Shami to be fit for the next series against South Africa. There is 10 days before that series starts. So we are more than hopeful you can say.”
Umesh Yadav has been brought into the team and is set to play his first T20I in more than two years. He was originally supposed to receive treatment for a quad injury in Bengaluru. Having played frequently in the IPL, Umesh was one of the top bowlers in the powerplay last year, taking 16 wickets total.
Umesh Yadav has also suffered an injury recently and was ruled out of the county league but when asked about his selection choice the officials stated that “Umesh was doing his rehab at the NCA after he came back and it was not a tear, so he has now recovered and is fit to play,”
This is the second time in less than a month that India has had to cope with a key member of their team contracting Covid-19. Head coach, Rahul Dravid, was also diagnosed with the virus just before the Asia Cup and had to postpone his trip to the UAE for the tournament.
This was a great opportunity for Shami to establish his value, but sadly, things are not going in his favor. Nevertheless, he may still recover from sickness and be a significant asset to the team in India. Let’s hope that Shami heals back swiftly and will be a part of the South Africa series.
