‘If Shami Was There…’: 1983 WC Winner Backs India To Make Comeback In Test Series Against Australia

Last Updated:December 11, 2024, 12:26 IST

Former India all-rounder Kirti Azad has backed India to make a comeback in the ongoing five-match series against Australia after losing the pink-ball Test by 10 wickets.

The third Test between India and Australia will start on December 14. (Picture Credit: AP)

Former Indian all-rounder Kirti Azad, who is contesting Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) elections this year, has backed the Rohit Sharma-led Indian men’s cricket team to make a comeback in the ongoing five-match Test series against Australia after losing the second Test by 10 wickets in Adelaide on Sunday (December 8). India won the series opener in Perth by 295 runs but suffered a humiliating defeat in the pink-ball Test played from December 6 to 8 at Adelaide.

According to Azad, who was a member of the 1983 ODI World Cup-winning Indian team, India is missing Mohammed Shami’s presence, and if he becomes available, then India’s bowling attack will become very strong.

“In the first Test at Perth, you saw both the teams get bundled out, and then once the wicket was okay, it started hitting. So, cricket is one game where nobody should predict. It’s a game of various uncertainties. But I know this team can come back. The only player missing in this team is Mohammed Shami. If Mohammad Shami was there with Bumrah and Mohammad Shami, it becomes a very lethal, potent bowling attack,” Azad told reporters during an event in Delhi on Tuesday.

Speaking about India’s performance in the two Tests played so far, Azad said India surrendered against Australia in the 2nd Test.

“The second Test was more of a surrender by India than a victory by Australia. But then you can’t take it away from Australia. They did. They are known for the comebacks. So, it’s a tough opponent, and we have to fight and see to it that we put them behind in Gabba.”

He also came out in support of Indian captain Rohit Sharma after fans on social media questioned his place in the side following India’s fourth straight defeat under his leadership. According to him, it’s very strange in India that whenever someone doesn’t do well, fans lose their minds.

“It’s very strange in our country; if somebody doesn’t do well, he should be dropped. If somebody loses, then his captaincy should go. The problem is 140 crore people, because they see it on television where everybody is an expert.”