Shami drops bold statement ahead of BGT in December. (Source – Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)
The Indian team is hoping to enter the World Test Championship final for the third consecutive time. For them to dream a ticket to Lord’s for the title clash, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is a do-or-die series. At present, India is set to host Bangladesh for the two-match Test series, with the first game set to commence on September 19.
Indian pacer, Mohammed Shami, who is recuperating from Achilles Tendon surgery has warned Australians ahead of the tour. Shami is expected to make a comeback in the BGT and the pacer was not picked for the Bangladesh series. With Jasprit Bumrah’s workload being managed immaculately, the pacer trio of Bumrah, Shami, and Mohammed Siraj will aim to be at its best. Shami also added India are favourites.
“We are the favourites. They should be worried,” said Shami, as quoted by NDTV Sports.
Every team wants to beat India: Rohit Sharma
India are perched atop the WTC points table with six wins in nine games. They should be cautious of any shortcomings as Australia are breathing down their neck with eight wins in 12 games. The Bangladesh series will be a better opportunity to rake the points and India skipper, Rohit Sharma has ruled out any aspect of complacency within the team.
“No dress rehearsal [Bangladesh series], Every game is important. Doesn’t matter where we play. We want to win, want to win this Test and the series. Not looking too far ahead. It’s nice to have everyone back and start the season on a high,” said Rohit.
Also Check: India’s strongest predicted playing 11 against Bangladesh
“Every team wants to beat India, they all enjoy that, lene do maze (let them enjoy). We have played lot of cricket against variety of teams. We will focus on our own game. When England came they also spoke a lot in the press conferences, but we do not focus on that; We try to play good cricket and not think too much about opposition,” he added.