Mohammed Shami is not playing the first T20I between India and England at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata and will have to wait longer for his comeback. The 34-year-old is making a comeback to the national team for the first time since the 2023 Cricket World Cup final after a long spell on the sidelines.

India has won the toss and elected to bowl first in the series-opening T20 against England's cricketers in Kolkata. 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.

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.

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

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

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

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