Ajit Agarkar directed to pick Mohammed Shami for England Tests despite dip in form

Ajit Agarkar directed to pick Mohammed Shami for England Tests despite dip in form

Former Team India Cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu Backs Mohammed Shami for England Test Series

Former Team India cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu has expressed his support for pacer Mohammed Shami, who has been struggling to make an impact in recent times. Sidhu backed Shami’s selection for the upcoming five-match Test series against England, describing him as a ‘match-winner’ for India.

Shami’s Return to Test Cricket

Mohammed Shami has been out of Test cricket for almost two years, with his last appearance in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia. After a 14-month injury layoff, he made his return to international cricket in January this year. Despite his recent struggles in the Indian Premier League 2025, Shami is now on the selection radar for the England Test series.

Navjot Singh Sidhu’s Endorsement

Navjot Singh Sidhu praised Shami’s ability to extract significant seam movement, especially with the red ball, which he believes can trouble batsmen. Sidhu emphasized that Shami is a match-winner in Test cricket, highlighting his skill in making the ball nip off the surface and causing problems for the opposition.

“When the seam hits, Shami makes it nip off the surface by about six inches, and that movement causes more trouble than the one that swings in the air. That’s why, as a red-ball bowler, he is a match-winner — out and out,” Sidhu told Sports Today.

Recent Form and Challenges

Shami has faced challenges with form during the IPL 2025, where he struggled to make a significant impact, taking only six wickets in nine innings. This raised concerns about his readiness for Test cricket, especially after missing a few matches due to tensions on the India-Pakistan border.

Despite these challenges, Shami showed improvement during the T20 World Cup, where he was among the top wicket-takers, including a five-wicket haul against Bangladesh. His return to the T20I team for the series against England also provided glimpses of his potential.

Record in Test Matches in England

Mohammed Shami has had a mixed record in Test matches in England, taking 42 wickets in 14 Tests at an average of 40.50. His return for the upcoming Test series against England is crucial for India, as he will provide support to Jasprit Bumrah and help the team in their quest to break an 18-year-long wait for a series win in England.

Overall, Navjot Singh Sidhu’s endorsement and Shami’s determination to overcome challenges highlight the excitement and anticipation surrounding his potential impact in the upcoming Test series against England.

Shami’s Role in Indian Bowling Lineup

As Navjot Singh Sidhu rightly pointed out, Mohammed Shami’s ability to generate movement off the pitch is a valuable asset in Test cricket, where conditions often favor seam and swing bowling. With his experience and skill set, Shami adds depth to India’s formidable bowling lineup, complementing the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ishant Sharma.

Shami’s return to Test cricket comes at a crucial time for Team India, as they gear up for a challenging series against England in their own backyard. His knack for picking up crucial wickets, especially with the new ball, can put pressure on the opposition and provide crucial breakthroughs when needed the most.

Adapting to English Conditions

While Shami has had a mixed record in Test matches in England, his previous experiences in those conditions will undoubtedly aid him in adjusting to the challenges posed by English pitches. The swing-friendly conditions in England demand bowlers to be precise and disciplined, qualities that Shami possesses and can capitalize on to trouble the English batsmen.

Moreover, Shami’s ability to reverse swing the old ball could come in handy during the latter stages of the Test matches, where the wear and tear of the pitch play a significant role in determining the outcome. His variations and control make him a potent weapon in India’s arsenal, capable of turning the tide of the game in their favor.

Impact on Team Dynamics

With Shami’s inclusion in the Test squad, the team management has a crucial decision to make regarding the composition of the playing XI. His presence adds depth to both the bowling and batting departments, as Shami’s ability to contribute lower down the order with the bat provides balance to the team.

Furthermore, Shami’s experience and guidance could prove beneficial for the younger bowlers in the team, such as Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur, helping them learn and grow in their respective roles. His presence in the dressing room brings a sense of reassurance and confidence to the team, knowing that they have a seasoned campaigner to rely on in pressure situations.

Looking Ahead

As Mohammed Shami prepares to make his comeback to Test cricket after a hiatus, the expectations and hopes of fans and experts alike are high. His skill, determination, and passion for the game make him a formidable force on the field, capable of turning the game in India’s favor with his bowling exploits.

With Navjot Singh Sidhu’s backing and the support of the team management, Shami is geared up to make a strong statement in the upcoming Test series against England. His journey back to the pinnacle of Test cricket is a testament to his resilience and commitment, setting the stage for an exciting battle between the red cherry and the willow in the forthcoming matches.

As fans eagerly await the clash between India and England, all eyes will be on Mohammed Shami as he looks to make his mark and play a pivotal role in India’s quest for success on English soil.

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