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Xtra Time Web Desk: Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami’s recent Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) campaign was marked by a significant milestone as he completed 200 T20 wickets. However, his inconsistent performance in Bengal’s 41-run loss to Baroda in the quarterfinals raised fresh concerns about his readiness for a potential return in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

The domestic T20 tournament served as an opportunity for Shami to prove his fitness and form after recovering from injury. Since his comeback, the pacer showcased glimpses of brilliance, notably taking a seven-wicket haul in Bengal’s Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh, where he bowled 43.2 overs across two innings. In SMAT, Shami featured in nine matches, bowling 35.3 overs and picking up 11 wickets at an average of 25.36 and an economy rate of 7.85. These performances, combined with his recent milestone of 200 T20 wickets, highlight his continued impact in the shorter format.

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Shami's thunder roars at 200! ⚡????#PlayWithFire pic.twitter.com/AFXsBXegCi

— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) December 11, 2024

However, Shami’s outing in the knockout clash against Baroda fell short of expectations. Despite starting strongly with 1/13 in his first three overs and clocking speeds around 140 km/h, he struggled with rhythm and consistency, conceding extras and missing his trademark precision. The BCCI, closely monitoring his fitness, remains cautious about his ability to sustain long spells in the ongoing Test series.

India’s bowling attack, while anchored by Jasprit Bumrah’s stellar form—12 wickets at an economy of 2.62—has lacked support from other seamers, who have conceded runs at 4.66 per over. Shami’s absence was particularly felt during India’s loss in the second Test, raising questions about his potential inclusion for the final two matches.

Out of 10, how much would you rate Mohammed Shami's performance on his return after injury? ????#SMAT2024 #Bengal pic.twitter.com/Bul4lbERW2

— Cricket.com (@weRcricket) December 11, 2024

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Addressing the situation, India captain Rohit Sharma said, “He got some swelling in his knee while playing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali, which hampers his preparation for a Test match. We need to be very careful and not rush him.”

With Shami reaching the 200-wicket milestone in T20 cricket and continuing to prove his fitness, his potential return to red-ball cricket remains a key talking point as India seeks to strengthen its bowling arsenal for the remainder of the BGT.