Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir reckons Mohammed Shami should have been part of the playing XI from the start in the ongoing World Cup 2023. India kicked off their campaign against Australia in Chennai and backed veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.

In the next three matches, the team’s think tank backed Shardul Thakur. However, when Hardik Pandya was injured ahead of New Zealand clash, India decided to add Mohammed Shami to the final XI.

Shami was able to grab his chance with both hands, returning with 5-54 (his best World Cup figures) in his quota of 10 overs. The right-arm pacer was right on the money and bowled a superb spell, especially in the death overs as he got wickets of Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, and Daryl Mitchell. Thus, he was awarded Player of the Match for his fine bowling display.

“Shami has a different class. The Indian team management need to have a lot of might to keep him out. No doubt India have won four consecutive matches but despite that, Mohammed Shami should have been a part of this playing XI from the start,” said Gambhir while talking to Star Sports.

Gambhir added it will be interesting to note the selection call on Mohammed Shami once Hardik Pandya becomes available. Pandya was ruled out of the New Zealand clash due to an ankle injury, which he suffered while trying to stop the ball while diving in his follow-through.

“India went with five bowlers on a Dharamsala ground, which is quite difficult for the bowlers, and despite that, if you give your team five wickets, you can understand the level of bowler he is. It needs to be seen how the team management will make him sit out going forward. Will you persist with him once Hardik Pandya comes back?,” Gambhir added.

India will next take on reigning champions England at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow on Sunday.