Sat Jan 11 04:07:30 UTC 2025: ## Shami’s Fitness Boost Fuels India’s Champions Trophy Hopes

**Mumbai, India** – Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami is on the verge of a national team return, potentially boosting India’s chances in the upcoming Champions Trophy. While he missed the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy due to an ankle injury, reports indicate Shami is nearing full fitness and is expected to be selected for the ODI squad against England and the Champions Trophy. His inclusion in the T20I squad for the England series remains uncertain.

According to Cricbuzz, Shami has either received or is about to receive full medical clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. He has maintained match fitness through participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, but his last appearance for India was during the ODI World Cup in late 2023.

The BCCI has reportedly requested an extension from the ICC regarding the Champions Trophy squad announcement, suggesting a need for more time to finalize the roster for the tournament in Pakistan and the UAE. The deadline for the T20I squad announcement for the upcoming England series is expected to be imminent. Although the ICC permits squad changes a month after the initial announcement, the BCCI’s request indicates a desire for greater certainty regarding Shami’s fitness before making their final selections.

The England and India series kicks off on January 22nd with five T20Is, followed by three ODIs between February 6th and 12th.

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