South Africa vs India 2023: Why is Mohammed Shami not playing SA vs IND T20I Series?

The absence of the sensational bowler Mohammed Shami from the eagerly awaited T20I series between South Africa and India has left fans and cricket enthusiasts puzzled.

Shami emerged as India’s standout performer in the recently concluded World Cup tournament, consistently delivering his best performances, including the final game, which ended in a loss.

However, Shami is currently sidelined due to a lingering ankle niggle, a concern that persisted throughout the World Cup. Shami’s absence is due to the need for medical attention and recovery, despite playing only one T20I game against South Africa, where he displayed his prowess with an outstanding economy rate of 3.25.

Shami’s ankle injury forced him to miss India’s post-World Cup T20I series against Australia, according to Cricbuzz. The BCCI did, however, include Shami’s name for the two-match test series in the squads for the South Africa tour, but with a major note. According to an official statement from the BCCI, “Mohd. Shami is currently undergoing medical treatment, and his availability is subject to fitness.”

Mohammed Shami’s last T20I appearance was against England on November 10, 2022, at the Adelaide Oval. Since then, the fiery pacer has been prominently missing from T20Is, leaving fans eagerly awaiting his return.
The absence of Shami will be felt keenly by India as the T20 World Cup takes on in less than six months. This raises concerns about the possible impact he could offer. Shami, known for his accuracy and ability to unsettle batters, will be an invaluable asset to India in the upcoming World T20 tournament.

Mohammed Shami Last 10 T20I innings