![India preps for Australia tour: Shami's return crucial for hat-trick](/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Jay-Shah-Hints-at-Shamis-Return-for-Australia-Series-jpg-1-720x470.webp)
The upcoming India tour of Australia is set to witness a high-octane battle between two heavyweights of the red-ball cricket. India will be eyeing to create history by sealing their third consecutive Test series win in Australia.
However, the task poses a tough challenge given Australia’s competitive home record. The team’s last clash in the WTC final was won by the hosts.
For India, a potent pace attack holds the key. While Jasprit Bumrah has been rested, his form and fitness are being monitored closely ahead of the Assignment Down Under.
Mohammed Shami’s return from injury is eagerly awaited. Although he missed the Bangladesh Tests, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has assured of his availability for Australia.
Shah told TOI that Shami will ease into competitive cricket via Ranji before heading to Australia as the team requires his experience to succeed in those conditions.
Earlier, chief selector Ajit Agarkar had expressed hope of Shami being fit for Bangladesh. But the Indian think tank seems keener on managing his comeback meticulously via domestic games.
Meanwhile, seasoned campaigners like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli being in fine fettle adds further strength as India aims for an unprecedented hat-trick against a tough opposition on their home soil.