Indian Test captain Shubman Gill has shed light on senior pacer Mohammed Shami’s extended absence from the Indian team. His absence has been the biggest talking point. Shami, who was instrumental in India’s 2023 ODI World Cup campaign with a record-breaking 24 wickets in just seven matches, has been struggling to make his comeback to the side.

Despite making a brief comeback earlier this year, featuring in the ODI series against England and the Champions Trophy, Shami’s time on the field has been limited. Shami was recently excluded from India's Test squad for the two-match series against South Africa.

“There aren't many bowlers of his (Mohammed Shami’s) quality. But you have to take into consideration the bowlers that are playing right now," Gill said during the press conference.

“They have done such a terrific job. You can't ignore the performances of someone like Akash Deep or someone like Prasidh. We all know what Siraj and Bumrah have been doing in Test cricket. And sometimes, it's very difficult when players like Shami Bhai have to miss.

Shami recently performed remarkably in domestic red-ball cricket. He picked up 15 wickets in two matches in the Ranji Trophy, including a five-wicket haul against Gujarat.