Bumrah's absence opens door for 'world-class' Shami, says Gambhir

Jasprit Bumrah's absence from India's Champions Trophy squad presents an opportunity for "world-class" Mohammed Shami and other fast bowlers, coach Gautam Gambhir said on 14 February.

Bumrah was ruled out of the 50-over tournament, which begins on 19 February in Pakistan and Dubai, dealing a significant blow to India's hopes of claiming the title. The world's top-ranked ODI side, India completed a dominant 3-0 series sweep over England, securing a 142-run victory in Ahmedabad in the final match. However, much of the focus remained on Bumrah's lower back injury.

"If he's injured, he's injured—whether it's me, whether it's the captain, we can't do much about it," Gambhir told reporters. "Obviously, we know he's an important factor. But as I mentioned, people like Harshit [Rana], Arshdeep [Singh], Mohammed Shami—all these guys will put their hands up. It's a great opportunity for them to deliver for the country."

Fast bowler Harshit Rana, who made his ODI debut at the start of the England series, impressed with six wickets in three matches, while left-arm quick Arshdeep Singh claimed two wickets in his only outing. However, the biggest boost for India ahead of the eight-team tournament has been the return of 34-year-old Shami.

Shami recovered from a heel injury to make his comeback in the T20 series, having been on a break since India's World Cup final defeat to Australia in november 2023.

"Look, it's always good to have a world-class bowler back," Gambhir said. "With his experience, with his quality, we all know what he can do with the ball in his hand."

Shami picked up five wickets across the T20 and ODI series after being eased back into action. Though he was rested for some matches, he bowled long spells at full intensity.

"Obviously, we were trying to manage his workload," Gambhir added. "That's why we played him in two T20s and two one-dayers. Hopefully, he'll be fresh and ready to go in the Champions Trophy."

India will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on 20 February before facing arch-rivals Pakistan three days later in Dubai.