Shami bowls extended spell in nets

Mohammed Shami's exclusion from the side for the first three ODIs would have been a matter of concern for Indian fans, but there was better news around on the fourth day of the Indian team's pre-season training camp in Bangalore. Shami, who had played through a knee injury through the World Cup and had to undergo an operation on the left knee, was still not completely fit when the team was announced, but he was seen bowling off a full run at the nets at the National Cricket Academy.

Shami told ESPNcricinfo he was happy with his recovery and that he felt comfortable bowling off the full run. "I've been bowling off my full run-up for a while now, and don't feel much discomfort." He bowled in the nets for about 45 minutes. For a man who was on crutches not so long ago this is a great recovery, but whether he will be fit in time to be selected for the last two ODIs or the subsequent Tests depends entirely on the physio's assessment. The team management remained tight-lipped about Shami's recovery.

In a press conference after the squad for the T20Is and the first three ODIs was named, chairman of selectors Sandeep Patil said they were keeping a close eye on Shami's progress. Representing the selection panel on the first day of outdoor cricket activity in this camp was Roger Binny. The first three days were all about medical appraisals and fitness tests in the gym at the NCA. Although MS Dhoni and Ambati Rayudu had a hit out in the middle on the third day, it was an optional session, and the first proper nets took place on day four.

The camp was originally 30-strong, but players who are not part of the limited-overs squad and are not required in the nets have been released so they can join their Ranji sides in their pre-season preparations. Players such as Cheteshwar Pujara and Kedar Jadhav have left. The only players from outside the squad left back are Ravindra Jadeja (will be playing the A game against Bangladesh in Bangalore), Shami (rehab), Karun Nair (Karnataka player), and Ishant Sharma and Varun Aaron (India quicks bowling in the nets).