Mohammed Shami returns to cricket after a year due to injury, contributing to India's T20I series against England. India leads the five-match series 2-0 and Shami replaces Arshdeep Singh in the lineup.

In a blow to the Indian cricket team, fast bowler Mohammed Shami was left out of the Playing XI for the first match of the five-game T20I series against England being held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. The decision has dampened hopes of Shami's much-awaited return to international cricket.

There was a big surprise as far as India's playing XI is concerned with star pacer Mohammed Shami unable to make the cut.

The 34-year-old is returning to the national team for the first time since the 2023 Cricket World Cup final after an extended period away from the game.

Shami was not included in the playing XI for the first T20I in Kolkata. Fans were left disappointed again in the 2nd T20I, as he remained absent from the lineup.

India has won the toss and elected to bowl first in the series-opening T20 against England's cricketers in Kolkata. Mohammed Shami missed out for India despite the fast bowler being available after more than a year on the sidelines.

The five-match series between India and England was expected to be a high-scoring one. A battle of sixes if you will. But three games in, this hasn't been the case, but the series has by no means been devoid of thrills.

Suryakumar Yadav's men won the first two games in Kolkata and Chennai before England pulled one back in Rajkot.

Varun Chakravarthy showcased his bowling prowess with a five-wicket haul, restricting England's run rate effectively on a sluggish pitch. Despite Indi

Mohammed Shami returned to the Indian playing XI after 14 months. Arshdeep Singh has been rested. The India vs England 3rd T20I starts at 7 PM IST.

Mohammed Shami has been declared fit by India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak. It will be interesting to see whether Shami is included or not. India are already leading the series 2-0. The India vs England 3rd T20I starts at 7 PM IST.