Shami 'unfit' for consideration for the remaining two Tests of BGT: BCCI

Mohammed Shami will not be part of the Indian cricket squad for the last two Tests of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the BCCI confirmed on Monday. While Shami has fully recovered from his earlier heel injury, a new concern regarding swelling in his left knee has ruled him out of consideration.

In a press release, the BCCI detailed that Shami had shown significant progress since his right heel surgery, which had initially sidelined him. However, his recent matches, including performances in the Ranji Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy (SMAT), have resulted in increased joint loading, leading to knee swelling.

"The BCCI Medical Team at the Centre of Excellence has been working closely with Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami on his recovery and rehabilitation after his right heel surgery. Shami has completely recovered from this heel problem," the statement read.

Shami participated in Bengal’s Ranji Trophy clash against Madhya Pradesh in November, bowling 43 overs. He followed this by playing nine matches in the SMAT, where he also undertook extra bowling sessions to regain his form and prepare for the Test series. However, the additional workload appears to have stressed his left knee, causing minor swelling that requires controlled recovery.

Based on medical evaluations, the BCCI concluded that Shami’s knee condition requires a gradual reintroduction to bowling at full intensity. As a result, he has been excluded from the final two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which currently stands tied at 1-1 after three matches.

Shami will continue his recovery and conditioning at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence under the supervision of the medical staff. His potential participation in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy will depend on his progress. For now, Indian fans will have to wait to see Shami return to the longest format of the game.