Another positive for India going into the series is the return of Mohammed Shami. Shami, who had finished the 2023 Men’s Cricket World Cup as the leading wicket-taker, marked his return from a long injury bout in the T20I series against England.

Featuring in two games, Shami returned with three wickets. The seasoned pacer had previously also featured in India’s domestic season.

When asked if he was fazed by the pacer’s low returns with the ball, Rohit backed Shami, citing a stellar Cricket World Cup to strengthen his case.

“He has been playing cricket for the past 10-12 years and has performed for the team. You look at the World Cup and how he bowled then.

“In domestic cricket, if a few games didn’t pan out the way he would’ve thought, then that doesn’t mean he isn’t a good bowler. He has won us so many games, picked so many wickets, it is crucial to keep that in mind.”

The first ODI between India and England will be played in Nagpur on February 6, Thursday.