Speaking about the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar trophy in November, Mohammed Shami was unreserved in his criticism.
The mind games between Australia and India have begun in earnest, and months before the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy is scheduled to begin in November, the competition is already heating up. As India looks to win an unprecedented three series in Australia after winning 2-1 in the 2018/19 and 2020/21 trips, the stakes are bigger than ever.Compared to earlier editions, where the challenge consisted of a four-match series, this time around there are five Tests on the line. A fascinating match is being set up by the delicate verbal exchanges between players and former cricketers on both sides as emotions increase.Australia’s past captain Ricky Ponting, for example, predicted that Australia would terminate India’s run and dash their aspirations of a series hat-trick. Australian legends and players have not kept back either. Players who are currently competing, such as middle-order mainstay Marnus Labuschagne and spin specialist Nathan Lyon, have been candid about the difficulty of the series and their workload.
As the psychological struggle intensifies, India’s best bowler Mohammed Shami has entered the mix and put Australia under further pressure with a daring declaration. Shami made the rather undiplomatic claim that Australia, not India, should be the one feeling the heat. Shami asserted that his team is the one to beat, even if the Men in Blue are the clear favorites going into the series. He said that the Australians will be under more pressure because of India’s impressive recent performance in Australian conditions.
According to PTI, Shami remarked, “Favourites toh hum hi hai, chinta unhe honi chahiye (We are the favourites, they should be worried).”
Given the obstacles they overcome, India’s historic 2-1 series victory in the most recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under will always be remembered in cricket history. Despite losing important players like Mohammed Shami to injuries and being bowled out for just 36 in the opening Test, India, headed by acting skipper Ajinkya Rahane, heroically rallied.
All eyes will be on Mohammed Shami as India prepares for another thrilling match. Shami is expected to make a full recovery from an injury he sustained during the ODI World Cup last year. The seasoned pacer has always been a key member of India’s Test attack, and as they look to retain their crown once more, their relationship with Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah will be essential. With the three starting a five-match series in Australia in November, fans are excited to see them in action.
