'Once he's back, he'll have clarity' - Robin Uthappa opens up on Mohammed Shami's lack of games

Robin Uthappa, Mohammed Shami (Image Source: Twitter)

With Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of the Indian squad, Mohammed Shami, another experienced pacer from the Indian pace stock, replaced him for the 20-20 World Cup 2022. However, the only concern with Shami is the lack of games and the bowler last played in the shortest format during the previous edition of the 20-20 World Cup. 

Taking cognizance of Shami’s lack of game time, former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa said that it will not be a problem for team India going into the tournament as Shami is experienced. The Men in Blue pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar failed to contain runs in the death during the recently concluded Asia Cup. 

Notably, India lost two of their Super 4 matches after leaking runs in the death and failing to defend the total. Uthappa said on ESPNCricinfo that he would have Shami on his side and added that the team management must choose between Bhuvneshwar and Harshal Patel. 

“Not necessarily because I think he will get a couple of warm-up games before the tournament itself begins. So, I think for someone with his experience, it's about muscle memory. I feel once he gets back, he will have a little bit of clarity, he will sit down with the bowling staff as well and figure out how he wants to go about his business,” Uthappa said on ESPNCricinfo.

I would go with Arshdeep Singh: Uthappa

The former Indian wicketkeeper added that he would also have Arshdeep Singh in his squad. Emphasizing the importance of a left-arm pacer, Uthappa said that India needed to go with a left armer in the showpiece event. 

“I think he walks into the setup. It also depends upon how many fast bowlers you go with because you also have Hardik Pandya there. I would ideally want to go with a left-arm fast bowler because that change of angle makes a huge difference and Arshdeep is also bowling exceptionally well with the new ball. I would go with Arshdeep Singh, Shami, Bhuvi,” said Uthappa further. 

It remains to see if Shami would get a go-ahead for the clash against Pakistan on October 23. However, it is sure that the experienced pacer will help India in crunch situations and get the team out of it if needed. As it stands, all eyes are on India's opening clash against the arch-rivals to be played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.