Mohammed Shami was out of Suryakumar Yadav-led India's playing XI during the first T20I against England at Eden Gardens Kolkata.

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.

The question remains whether problem of a swelling left knee after each rigorous session is still causing problems for the veteran pacer.

The spotlight was on ace pacer Mohammed Shami ever since his name featured in the provisional India squad for the Champions Trophy 2025. The veteran pacer was reportedly set to make an international comeback.

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.

India pacer Mohammed Shami's return to international cricket will have to wait for some more time after he was left out of India's playing XI against England for the 1st T20I on Wednesday (Jan 22). Shami last played for India in ODI World Cup 2023 final on November 19 at home which India lost to Australia.

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.

Mohammed Shami will play his first international match in the first T20I against England since ODI World Cup 2023 final

Fit-again pacer Mohammed Shami's comeback would be keenly watched when the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian T20 team takes on an evenly-matched England in a five-match series starting here on Wednesday, ai