Shami struggles to find place in Daredevil’s pace-heavy attack
Delhi Daredevils seem to be spoilt for choice when it comes to fast bowling options. In the first two matches, they have gone with captain Zaheer Khan, Chris Morris and Pat Cummins. However, there are two big names still waiting to play their first match this season - South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada and one of India’s premier fast bowlers — Mohammed Shami. Shami has not played international cricket since November 2016. He suffered a knee injury during the third Test against England and it ruled out him out of the Tests against Bangladesh and Australia.
As a result, IPL 2017 is the final chance for the pacer to prove himself before the selectors get together to choose the squad for this year’s Champions Trophy. But things are not looking up for him. The Delhi Daredevils side is full of quality pace options and that has prevented Shami from making debut in this season till now. Zaheer Khan is the captain of the side and his experience means that he will play most of the matches.
South Africa all-rounder Chris Morris has also proven his mettle with the ball this year and his batting prowess makes him key.
Corey Anderson and Carlos Brathwaite are also handy allrounders. That leaves just one spot open for a specialist fast bowler and Shami’s competition is quite intimidating. Kagiso Rabada and Pat Cummins are two of the most exciting fast bowlers in the world right now and they are capable of making their way into the team on any given day.