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Xtra TIme Web Desk: Mohammed Shami was spotted bowling in a personal nets session with India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar after the team’s defeat in the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru. Shami, who has been sidelined due to an ankle injury, was seen bowling at full intensity, raising hopes about his return to full fitness. But now the question is, can Shami actually prove captain Rohit Sharma wrong? Just a few days ago, Rohit had openly stated that he would by no means take a half-fit Shami to Australia. 

India’s loss in the first Test sparked discussions amongst fans and former cricketers about the absence of Shami’s pace alongside Jasprit Bumrah. Shami’s ability to trouble batters with his swing and speed has been sorely missed, especially in challenging Test conditions. Although Shami is not part of the current New Zealand series, speculation has grown regarding his recovery and potential return for India’s highly anticipated tour of Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

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The 34-year-old pacer has been out of action since his outstanding performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup. His absence has been felt not only in India’s fixtures but also in the Indian Premier League (IPL), from which he was ruled out. Shami’s presence as one of India’s top fast bowlers has been a critical part of the team’s success over the years, and his return is eagerly awaited.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="et" dir="ltr">Mohammad Shami Bowling ???? <a href="https://t.co/yE22gP32mo">pic.twitter.com/yE22gP32mo</a></p>&mdash; Shantanu Tripathi ???????? (@Shantanu_media) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shantanu_media/status/1847941032874488064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

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With Shami now seen practicing at full stretch, Indian cricket fans are optimistic about his comeback. His session with Nayar signals progress in his recovery, and many are hopeful that Shami will return to action sooner than expected. The pace bowler’s fitness will be closely monitored ahead of the Australia tour, where his experience and skill will be vital for India’s chances in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.