Mohammed Shami's much-anticipated comeback will be further delayed as the Indian pacer was not named in India's playing eleven for the first T20I against England, fueling speculations whether national selectors are sanguine about his fitness.

Mohammed Shami was not picked in the playing XI for the match against England in Kolkata as the team management preferred three spinners as part of combination.

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

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.

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

Mohammed Shami brings class and experience with him and naturally, the Indian team management is happy with his return.

Veteran India pacer Mohammed Shami has not been picked for India's first T20I against England at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The hosts named one specialist pacer in Arshdeep Singh, while Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy can assist him whenever required.

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.

Suryakumar Yadav's Indian cricket team is going one-on-one against Jos Buttler-led England side in the first T20I of the five-match series which is being played at the Eden Gardens. in Kolkata, on January 22 (Wednesday).

The 1st T20 match between India and England is set for January 22 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Mohammed Shami is expected to return after injury. India, under Suryakumar Yadav, aim to continue its strong form.

Mohammed Shami is set to make his international comeback while Sanju Samson will return to opening slot for the first T20 match against England at Kolkata on Wednesday.