Mohammed Shami was unable to take the workload of the fifty-over format and left the field after bowling just three overs in the first ODI against England in Nagpur. Shami was seen gasping for breath in the dugout, clearly showing that he is still not at his best after missing cricket for more than one year. Although he returned before the seventh over of England’s innings, the veteran was battling for rhythm.

“Not a good sign for the Indian team,” Aakash Chopra said. Suresh Raina also opined on the latest concern. “It is not easy to return after a year and Shami is struggling. It is hot in Nagpur and he should have orange juice,” he said.

Shami played two T20Is against England before the ODI series. He picked up three wickets in the fifth and final game at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. With no Jasprit Bumrah in the team due to back injury, Shami will have to lead the pace bowling attack against the English team and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli has been ruled out of the series opener after injuring his knee a day before the contest. He failed to pass the fitness test, with Yashasvi Jaiswal making his debut for the Men in Blue. Harshit Rana is the second debutant.