NEW DELHI: Former India coach Ravi Shastri and Australian legend Ricky Ponting have expressed disappointment over India's decision not to include pacer Mohammed Shami in the squad for the just concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Both believe Shami's presence, even as a late addition, could have bolstered India's chances, especially in the latter stages of the series.
Shami, who has been recovering from an ankle surgery he underwent after the 2023 Cricket World Cup Final, showcased his readiness with appearances in domestic red-ball cricket prior to the series. However, subsequent knee swelling led to the BCCI medical team ruling him out before the fourth Test in Melbourne.
