Thu Jan 09 17:15:38 UTC 2025: ## Shami’s Stellar Performance Boosts Hopes for England Series & Champions Trophy Selection
**Kolkata, India** – Senior India pacer Mohammed Shami delivered a strong statement in Bengal’s Vijay Hazare Trophy knockout match against Haryana, bolstering his chances for selection in the upcoming limited-overs series against England and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Returning from a right heel surgery that sidelined him since the 2023 World Cup final, Shami showcased his form with a crucial three-wicket haul in his 10-over spell.
Shami struck early, dismissing Haryana opener Himanshu Rana, and returned in the death overs to claim the wickets of Dinesh Bana and Anshul Kamboj. While his economy rate was 6.67 early on, his late-innings performance underscored his fitness and effectiveness. Beyond his match performance, Shami shared a training video on social media, demonstrating his commitment to full fitness and hinting at his ambition for a national team recall. The video showed him working out in the gym, wearing kneecaps for added protection.
Concerns about Shami’s ability to bowl long spells have been addressed by his consistent performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (11 wickets in nine matches) and the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Despite a brief setback due to heel inflammation, he has returned to bowl eight-over spells. With selectors closely monitoring his performance in the knockout stages of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, his impressive showing significantly improves his chances of selection.
The squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is anticipated on January 12th, although changes may be made until a week before the tournament begins. Shami’s recent form suggests he is a strong contender for a place in the team.
First Piper 