Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has opined that it would be ideal to rest Shami for the clash against New Zealand. India will lock horns with the Kiwis in their final Champions Trophy group stage fixture in Dubai on Sunday. With the semi-final set to take place on March 4, Chopra reckons that it would be better for India to rest the veteran pacer on Sunday so that he is in shape for the knockout stages.
Rest Shami for New Zealand clash: Chopra
In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra wondered if in a scenario where India bowled second against New Zealand and first in the semis, then will Shami be able to bowl in full tilt. Instead, he suggested India rest the pacer for the group stage fixture, terming it more ideal. It is pertinent to point out that India have had a week’s rest since their last encounter against Pakistan.
“The question is – Can Mohammed Shami bowl 20 overs at full tilt in 36 hours, on March 2 night and March 4 afternoon? Is that a good scenario? It is not ideal in my opinion. If you ask me, I would say don’t make him do that, and instead ask him to rest and remain ready to play straightaway in the semi-final,” Chopra said.
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On Saturday, reports had claimed that Arshdeep Singh was likely to replace Shami in the tie against New Zealand. The veteran pacer reportedly bowled only 7-8 overs in full tilt and appeared to have had some discomfort in his shin.
The pacer, who returned to international cricket after 14 months, suffered an injury scare in the game against Pakistan. However, like they did for Rohit, the Indian camp has clarified that there are no injury concerns for Shami. However, given that he will play a crucial role in the semi-final, India can afford to bench him.
