India squad for NZ Test series to be announced this week, fitness of Mohammed Shami in focus

The much-anticipated India squad for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand is set to be announced this week, with all eyes on the fitness of fast bowler Mohammed Shami. Shami, who has been in rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) following an ankle injury in November 2023, is racing against time to be fit for the series.

India’s Preparation for the Border Gavaskar Trophy

India, fresh off a 2-0 series win over Bangladesh, will be looking to fine-tune their preparation ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy. The IND vs NZ Test series, starting October 16 in Bengaluru, will be crucial for both India’s form and preparation ahead of their marquee clash with Australia later in the year. The series is expected to provide valuable match practice as India aims to secure their spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025.

Mohammed Shami’s Fitness in Question

Shami, a key figure in India’s pace attack, has been undergoing rehabilitation following ankle surgery. While the selectors are hopeful of his return, the BCCI has confirmed that they will not rush his comeback. If Shami is unable to recover in time for the first Test, scheduled for October 16, there is a possibility he could feature in the later stages of the series or be considered for the subsequent T20I series against South Africa.

“We are hopeful Shami will be available for the New Zealand series, but his fitness and injury assessment will determine when he can return. We won’t rush him,” a BCCI official told InsideSport.

Key Selections and Squad Decisions

Outside of Shami’s availability, there aren’t many major concerns regarding team selection. Despite some batting inconsistencies, the selectors are likely to stick with familiar faces, with KL Rahul expected to retain his spot, while Sarfaraz Khan will remain as a backup option. In the bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are set to lead the pace attack, with Akash Deep expected to keep his place in the squad.

The possibility of Nitish Kumar Reddy receiving his maiden Test call-up is also on the cards. Having played only one international match so far, Reddy could be a surprise inclusion ahead of the Australia series.

Meanwhile, Shardul Thakur, recovering from illness and limited bowling in recent matches, will be monitored closely during the Ranji Trophy before any decisions are made about his inclusion in the Test squad.

Probable India Squad for NZ Test Series:

• Rohit Sharma (C)
• Yashasvi Jaiswal
• Shubman Gill
• Virat Kohli
• KL Rahul
• Sarfaraz Khan
• Rishabh Pant (WK)
• Dhruv Jurel (WK)
• Ravichandran Ashwin
• Ravindra Jadeja
• Axar Patel
• Kuldeep Yadav
• Mohammed Siraj
• Akash Deep
• Jasprit Bumrah
• Yash Dayal
• Mohammed Shami (subject to fitness)
• Nitish Kumar Reddy

The first Test begins on October 16, with the series wrapping up on November 5, giving India crucial preparation time ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy.