Veteran pace bowler Zaheer Khan's fitness issues have been under the scanner since joining Delhi Daredevils ahead of the ongoing eighth edition of the IPL and the franchise insists that he and Mohammed Shami are still not fit for selection.
A statement from the franchise on Monday said the two pacers are nursing "minor injuries".
While the 36-year-old Zaheer, who hasn't bowled a single delivery in competitive cricket since last May, incidentally in an IPL game, is said to be recuperating from a "niggle", Shami is reportedly nursing a "minor knee injury".
- IPL 2015
For the record, Shami was troubled by a dodgy knee throughout the World Cup. In fact, he was rested for the group league match against the UAE due to the same problem.
"Zaheer has a niggle, but is progressing well and should be available for selection once the medical team has assessed him.
"Right-arm fast bowler Shami has a minor knee injury and is consulting a specialist to chart a quick recovery process," read the statement from Delhi Daredevils.
A support staffer of the franchise said Zaheer is likely to be fit for the team's fifth match in the tournament, while the time frame for Shami's return is uncertain.
Delhi Daredevils head coach Gary Kirsten is confident that the pair, when fit, will strengthen the team's bowling resources.
"We look forward to the return of Zaheer and Shami to the playing eleven. Thus far, the bowling unit has stood up well and made the most of the opportunities. The most pleasing aspect of our bowling has been the performance of the spinners and the younger fast bowlers," Kirsten was quoted as saying in the statement.
Delhi Daredevils' next match is against Kings XI Punjab in Pune on April 15.
