IND vs ENG: Mohammad Shami trains hard at nets in Chennai ahead of 2nd T20I, but suspense surrounds his return

Mohammed Shami's much anticipated return to top-flight cricket did not quite live up to expectations during his nearly hour-long practice at the India nets on Friday. Shami, a seasoned pacer whose last appearance in Indian colours came during the 2023 World Cup final, focused on rediscovering his bowling rhythm at Chepauk. However, he fell short of his best form, which usually makes him a difficult opponent for batters.

Shami's comeback was originally scheduled to take place in India's first T20I against England in Kolkata on Wednesday, but the management postponed it. Nonetheless, he remained active during the practice session, jogging alongside assistant coach Abhishek Nayar and participated in fielding drills with coach T Dilip before heading to the bowling nets near the Madras Cricket Club stand.

Throughout the workout, Shami, who had both legs severely bandaged, gradually increased his pace while improving his run-up. Despite struggling to find his typical fluidity in approach and release, he was able to hit the stumps a few times under the careful eye of bowling coach Morne Morkel.

Alongside Shami, left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh also displayed sharp and accurate bowling skills during the nets. After a brief discussion with Morkel and head coach Gautam Gambhir, Shami returned to the nets to continue his bowling practice.

His performance showed a steady improvement in rhythm and sharpness, but there was still a clear sense of rustiness.

It's quite surprising, especially considering Shami's recent selection for the India squad for the series against England and the Champions Trophy, after his participation in the Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

However, during this training session, Shami seemed far from his usual lethal self. At first, he didn't bowl to any of his batting teammates, who chose to practice outside at the MAC 'B' ground.

Later, Shami only bowled a few deliveries to Nitish Kumar Reddy before heading back to the main ground with Hardik Pandya. He then concentrated on fielding and catching drills.

After winning the first T20I of the five-match series against England by 7 wickets, the defending World T20 champions, India, are gearing up to take on the visitors once more in the second T20I. This match is set to start at 7:00 PM (IST) on January 25 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

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