Tabraiz Shamsi's Participation In The T20 World Cup Opening Fixture Still In Doubt

South Africa star spinner Tabraiz Shamsi may not play in Proteas opening match of the main round of the T20 World Cup 2021, which will take place in Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday against Australia. Shamsi is the no.1 ranked T20I spinner globally and recently played in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2021), which was also played in UAE.

However, it has been reported that Shamsi has suffered a strain to his groin while bowling in South Africa’s warmup match against Pakistan. He immediately left the field and took no further part in the match.

“Tabraiz Shamsi is sitting out for the remainder of the match as a precaution due to a tight groin. The Proteas medical team will assess him overnight and determine next steps as required,” Proteas media liaison Siphokazi Sokanyile had said.

Tabraiz Shamsi Recovering Well. Final Decision To Be Taken Later- Report

Independent media is reporting that Shamsi is recovering well, but he will undergo a fitness test on Friday afternoon at the final training session. The Proteas play their first game of the tournament on Saturday against Australia in Abu Dhabi, and it would be a massive blow to their chances should Shamsi be ruled out.

Shamsi has been in terrific form over the past 12 months, and his numero uno ranking in T20Is is evidence of his abilities. The Proteas will be desperate for Shamsi to get through his fitness test to face up Australia in their opening fixture in Abu Dhabi.

Former West Indies spinner Samuel Badree has even called the left-arm chinaman as the spinner to watch out for the T20 World cup 2021. His ability to bowl at various game stages and perform both the holding and attacking roles for the Proteas has impressed Badree the most.

Shamsi is not just a pivotal bowler for Temba Bavuma’s side but a great source of motivation for particularly the younger players in the squad. At the same time, he is always desperate to do well against the arch-rivals Australia. South Africa has been placed in Group 1 of the Super 12s round with Australia, England, West Indies, Bangladesh, and the first qualifier from Group A.

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