As the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) nears the deadline to finalize its squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy, uncertainty surrounds the inclusion of veteran pacer Mohammed Shami. Shami, who had been sidelined due to a persistent ankle injury, is reportedly nearing a return to India’s ODI squad, sparking optimism for his role in the upcoming Champions Trophy. The 33-year-old, whose fitness has been a major talking point, is expected to feature in India’s upcoming ODI series against England.

While Shami’s return to ODIs appears likely, his inclusion in the T20I squad remains in doubt. According to reports, the pacer will not be part of the T20I team for the series against England. Shami has been participating in domestic white-ball cricket, playing for Bengal in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and his recent form has been promising. His last international appearance for India was during the 2023 ODI World Cup, after which injury forced him out of action.

The BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru is reportedly on the verge of clearing Shami’s fitness, signaling that his return to the national squad could be imminent. Although he missed the Border-Gavaskar Trophy due to injury concerns, selectors are hopeful that Shami will be match-fit in time for the ODI series against England and the Champions Trophy.

BCCI Seeks Additional Time for Squad Finalization

In light of the ongoing uncertainties, the BCCI has reportedly sought an extension from the International Cricket Council (ICC) for submitting the final Champions Trophy squad. Normally, teams have the flexibility to make changes to their provisional squad up to one month before the tournament. However, the Indian board appears to be taking extra time to ensure it fields the best possible lineup for the prestigious tournament, which will be held across Pakistan and the UAE.

While the T20I squad for the England series is expected to be announced soon, the ODI squad will follow in the coming weeks. The series will begin on January 22 with five T20Is, followed by three ODIs on February 6, 9, and 12.

Shami’s Road to Recovery and Potential Impact

Shami’s recovery is a pivotal development for India’s pace attack, particularly with the Champions Trophy looming large. The bowler’s extensive ODI experience and ability to thrive under pressure make him a key asset for India’s chances. Though his path to full fitness has been marked by setbacks, including missing out on the Australia series, Shami’s recent form in domestic cricket has reassured selectors of his readiness to take the field again.

His potential inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad would provide India with a valuable combination of skill, experience, and composure at a time when every match counts. As the BCCI continues to assess its options and fine-tune the roster, Shami’s recovery and performance in the upcoming England series will play a critical role in shaping the final squad for the tournament.

With fans eagerly awaiting official squad announcements, all eyes will be on Shami’s performances in the upcoming ODI series against England. A strong showing could secure his place in India’s plans for 2025, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.