Mohammed Shami has less than a week to convince selectors to include him in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad, according to a report. The pacer, recently returning to competitive cricket after a prolonged injury, is under close monitoring by the BCCI’s medical team.

Shami made an impressive comeback in Bengal’s Ranji Trophy match but is now being evaluated in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) T20 games. A key requirement for his selection is to shed weight and regain peak fitness.

“What needs to be assessed is when Shami can stop relying on the BCCI medical team, which is treating him after every spell,” a BCCI source told The Times of India. The medical team reportedly believes consistent match play will help him lose weight and build endurance.

BCCI’s head of sports science Nitin Patel and NCA trainer Nishant Bordoloi are overseeing Shami’s fitness and recovery during his stint with Bengal. His SMAT campaign began on November 23, giving him a 10-day window to prove his readiness.

However, selectors are cautious about rushing him back, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for February. “Bowling two-over spells in T20 matches isn’t ideal for assessing readiness for a high-profile Test series. Maintaining intensity in Test cricket is far more demanding,” the source said.

If Shami clears the SMAT fitness test, he may train with Team India but might only be available for the third Test starting December 14.

Meanwhile, India dominated the first Test in Perth despite Shami’s absence. Stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah claimed eight wickets, Mohammed Siraj took five, and debutant Harshit Rana grabbed four, securing a resounding 295-run victory for India.