Mohammed Shami, who has been sidelined since the ODI World Cup final last November, is gearing up for a return to competitive cricket. The Indian speedster is expected to play two Ranji Trophy matches for Bengal before traveling to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The Bengal team management is optimistic that Shami, 34, will join the squad for two crucial away games in Round 3 and 4 of the Ranji Trophy. His return is likely for the match against Karnataka in Bengaluru, beginning November 6, followed by another against Madhya Pradesh in Indore. Bengal’s coach, Laxmi Ratan Shukla, confirmed, “He is unavailable for the Kerala game, but we expect him to join us for the Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh matches.”
As one of India’s key bowlers, Shami’s participation in the Ranji Trophy aligns with his intention to sharpen his form before the demanding series in Australia. Shukla added, “Shami is eager to contribute to Bengal’s lineup. Playing in the Ranji Trophy will be valuable preparation for the Australia series.”
Shami will stay in India for these Ranji Trophy fixtures rather than depart with the national squad to Australia, which is scheduled to leave shortly after their final Test against New Zealand in Mumbai.
After an impressive 2023 ODI World Cup performance, where Shami claimed 24 wickets with an outstanding average of 10.70, he underwent knee surgery in London in February. Though initially set to return for Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, a knee inflammation delayed his comeback.
Indian captain Rohit Sharma, anticipating the Border-Gavaskar series, noted, “We want Shami fit and 100 percent for Australia. An undercooked Shami would not be ideal for such a crucial series.”
Shami’s previous contributions to India’s Test success in Australia, notably during the 2018-19 series, where he took 16 wickets, are a testament to his impact in the longer format. His Ranji appearances for Bengal will play a vital role in his journey back to full-match fitness as he aims to make a strong return for India in Australia.
Image Credits: Telegraph India
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