"Used to look at the India jersey every day during my rehab" - Mohammed Shami's emotional words ahead of potential comeback for 2025 Champions Trophy

Ace Indian pacer Mohammed Shami said he looked at the Indian jersey every day to motivate himself during rehabilitation from injury. The 34-year-old last played for India in the 2023 ODI World Cup, finishing as the tournament's leading wicket-taker with 24 scalps at an average of under 11 in seven games.

Shami battled with a heel issue that ultimately resulted in him undergoing Achilles tendon surgery in February last year. However, his misfortunes continued, with a knee swelling during his rehabilitation slowing down the recovery process.

Shami finally returned to action for Bengal in the ongoing Ranji Trophy in November but a side strain ruled him out of the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. The veteran pacer seems to have finally regained full fitness and is likely to make his Indian comeback in the upcoming Champions Trophy.

Talking about his mindset during the long road to recovery, Shami told Anand Bazaar Patrika [Via Free Press Journal]:

"Everything is possible if the superior (God) wants. For a player, the game is everything. Without it, life feels incomplete. How can I enjoy life if I can't pick up the ball? Life has been very difficult, that much I can say. Playing for the country is motivation enough. I used to look at the India jersey every day during my rehab."

He added:

"Playing for Bengal felt like going back to the early days. It gave me new energy and joy."

Shami played the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) in November and December 2024, picking up 11 wickets at an average of 25.36 in nine games. He has since played in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, bagging five wickets in three matches.

"A player of his ability, I would have brought him to Australia" - Ravi Shastri

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri was surprised by the lack of clear communication regarding Mohammed Shami's participation in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. After the ace pacer was reported to be in with a chance of playing the final two Tests, he was eventually ruled out.

Speaking on the ICC Review after India's 1-3 series defeat to Australia, Shastri said:

"To be honest, I was very surprised with the communication going on in the media as to what exactly happened to Mohammed Shami. Where is he when it comes to recovery? He's been sitting in the NCA for I don't know how long. Why can't proper communication come out on where he stands? A player of his ability, I would have brought him to Australia."

All eyes will be on India's 2025 Champions Trophy squad, which is set to be announced over the next few days to find out if Shami's long-awaited return to the national side finally comes to fruition. The tournament will be played from February 19 to March 9.