Ravi Shastri, former India coach, has hopes that pacer Mohammad Shami might fly to Australia to join the Indian team for the last two Tests of the BGT 2024. India will play Australia in Melbourne from December 26 and in Sydney from January 3 in the ongoing five-Test series.

Mohammad Shami recently made his return to competitive cricket after a year. He played one Ranji Trophy match for Bengal, taking 7 wickets in all. He has also impressed for Bengal in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy, where his performance and fitness is being monitored by the BCCI selector and the NCA medical staff.

“Quicker Mohammed Shami reaches here, (the) better (it is) for India. He is playing a lot of domestic matches,” Shastri commented during the second Test.

Shastri emphasized Bumrah's workload, especially when other bowlers aren't doing well. He noticed a noticeable difference in the pressure put on the opposition when Bumrah bowled versus other bowlers.

“You can see the pressure (on the opposition) when Bumrah is bowling and others are bowling. There is a lot of pressure on Bumrah,” Shastri added.

Shami has taken 8 wickets in 7 SMAT 2024 matches for Bengal bowling the maximum allowed overs per match. Shami has bowled several economical spells, demonstrating regained rhythm and control. This progress signifies a positive step in his recovery. He has been reportedly asked to shed some weight in order to increase his stamina and fitness.

While acknowledging Shami's progress, Shastri cautioned against rushing him back for the third Test in Brisbane. He suggested Melbourne or Sydney as more realistic targets for Shami's return to the Test squad.

“Brisbane might be too early but surely (Shami can be available for) Melbourne and Sydney,” Shastri stated.

Shami has a solid record against Australia in Tests, taking 44 wickets in 12 games. A large number of these wickets, 31, were taken in eight Tests held in Australia.

(Times of India inputs)