'Chinta unhe honi chahiye': Mohammed Shami warns Australia ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy series

Veteran India bowler Mohammed Shami has issued a stern warning to Australia ahead of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. Shami, who has been out of action since the 2023 ODI World Cup , is expected to return before the Test series against Australia. He is currently undergoing rehabilitation and will be aiming to make a comeback in a month or so. 

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Mohammed Shami warns Australia ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy series

Meanwhile, Mohammed Shami was recently asked about the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series to which he said India are clear favourites and Australia should be worried about the challenge that will come to their shores later this year. The BGT is scheduled to take place in Australia, starting November 22. India have won the last four editions of the BGT including two away contests.

Asked about the much-anticipated series, Shami said, "Favourites toh hum hi hai, chinta unhe honi chahiye (We are the favourites, they should be worried)." 

"Koshish jaldi hi kar raha hoon kyun ke main janta hoon kaafi time ho gaya hai team se bahar rehte hue (I am working hard to make a comeback soon because I know I have been out of action for quite some time). However, I want to ensure there is no discomfort when I return. I've to work on my fitness, so that there is no discomfort," Shami told reporters.

"The stronger I return, the better it is for me. I don't want to rush and risk getting injured again, be it against Bangladesh , New Zealand or the Australia series. I've already started bowling, but I won't take any chances until I am 100% fit." 

PTI had reported last month that Shami, who is undergoing rehabilitation, is likely to make a comeback to competitive cricket for his domestic side Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, and a potential international appearance later in one of the Test matches against New Zealand.

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It is understood that Shami will play either one or two of Bengal's opening Ranji matches against UP (October 11) and Bihar (October 18).

The 34-year-old hinted at the possibility of playing domestic matches before making his return to the Indian cricket team.

"If I need to play domestic cricket to test my fitness, I will. What matters most is that I am fully ready for whatever comes next, regardless of the opposition or format," Shami added.

(With PTI inputs)