Shami, Hooda unlikely for SA series

Mohammed Shami’s return to the Indian T20 International side is set to be further delayed. Shami could miss the three T20I series against South Africa starting Wednesday (September 28). And so could Deepak Hooda, who is currently down with a back injury and wasn’t available for Sunday’s decider in Hyderabad.

Hooda, meanwhile, has injured his back and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has said he was not available for selection for the third T20I against Australia in Hyderabad on Sunday. The BCCI statement on Sunday read: “Deepak Hooda wasn’t available for selection for this game owing to a back injury.”

There is, however, no immediate information if there will be changes to the World Cup squad. The indication at this stage is that all the selected players will be able to travel. The Indian team will leave for Australia on October 6 after the South Africa series ends in Indore on October 4.

The World Cup starts on October 16 but India’s first game is on October 23.