Leader of the Indian pace attack in Tests, Ishant Sharma is working hard to get back to full fitness in order to return on the field in the upcoming tour of Australia. He has been in close consultation of the head coach of the Indian U-19 team, Paras Mhambrey at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. As per a report by news agency ANI, Rahul Dravid who now heads the NCA has taken upon himself to make Ishant fit for the Test series against Australia starting December 17.
"As NCA head, Dravid has informed the board that Ishant is working with Mhambrey to be fit in time for the Test matches. Ishant will definitely have a big role to play and his presence will not just give India another strike bowler, but also his experience will bring a lot to the table in Kohli's absence," ANI quoted an unnamed source as saying.
Ishant was not included in the Test squad for the series against Australia but the selection committee had put his name on the watchlist of the BCCI medical team. He may well come back into the Test team but team management will be wary of his rushed comeback to bowling.
Earlier in the year, he was suggested rest for 6 weeks by the physio of the Delhi Ranji team to heal his ankle but he expedited his recovery plans and took the flight to New Zealand after passing the fitness Test. He featured in the first Test and grabbed a five-wicket haul before the ankle injury resurfaced to cut short his participation in the series that India went on to lose 2-0.
Powered by Froala Editor