As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, the Indian cricket team faces the significant challenge of competing without their premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, who has been ruled out due to a back injury. In this context, former India pacer Lakshmipathy Balaji has expressed confidence in Mohammed Shami’s ability to spearhead the bowling attack, emphasizing Shami’s experience and past performances in major tournaments.
Balaji highlighted Shami’s impressive track record in previous World Cups, noting that he outperformed Bumrah in both the 2019 and 2023 editions. He stated, “Actually, he had out-bowled Bumrah in the 2019 (50-over World Cup) and in the last World Cup (2023). Bumrah is the champion bowler across formats. But Shami has experience and, before Bumrah’s arrival, it was Shami who carried India’s attack all through.”
In the 2019 World Cup, Shami showcased his prowess by claiming 14 wickets, including a memorable hat-trick against Afghanistan. His performance in the 2023 World Cup was even more remarkable, as he emerged as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 24 scalps, underscoring his knack for delivering in high-pressure situations.
With Bumrah’s absence, Balaji underscored the importance of Shami making early breakthroughs with the new ball. He remarked, “If India has to do well, then Shami has to come good with the new ball. The kind of impact he can make in his first six overs with the new ball will play a crucial role for India.”
The responsibility on Shami is amplified, especially considering the relatively inexperienced pace attack accompanying him. The squad includes left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh and newcomer Harshit Rana, both of whom will look to Shami for guidance and mentorship. Balaji emphasized Shami’s role as a leader, stating, “Shami is the leader of the pack right now. I mean, he has been the leader of the pack for a long time now.”
Shami’s journey back to the forefront of India’s bowling lineup has been marked by resilience. After sustaining an ankle injury during the 2023 World Cup final against Australia, he underwent surgery on his Achilles tendon in early 2024. Demonstrating determination, Shami made a successful return to competitive cricket later in the year, impressing with his wicket-taking abilities in domestic matches before regaining his place in the Indian squad.
Balaji acknowledged the challenges Shami faced post-injury but expressed confidence in his ability to regain peak form. He noted, “Since that (ankle) injury happened, there was a little bit of slowness, maybe. It’s natural. But there is nothing you can do about it. It’s part of any sportsperson’s career. He has the experience to get over it, and he will do it as he bowls more.”
As India prepares to kick off their Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai, the onus will be on Shami to lead by example. His ability to strike early and mentor the younger bowlers will be pivotal to India’s success in the tournament. Balaji’s faith in Shami’s capabilities reflects a broader sentiment within the cricketing community that, despite the setback of Bumrah’s absence, India’s bowling attack remains formidable under Shami’s leadership.