Mohammed Shami set to return in 2024-25 Ranji Trophy: Report
Mohammed Shami, the senior Indian fast bowler, is preparing for his return to competitive cricket. After undergoing ankle surgery, he is now expected to represent Bengal in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy. There are also discussions about a potential international comeback during one of the Test matches against New Zealand. The last time Shami represented India was in November 2023 during the ODI World Cup final against Australia.
Shami's Ranji Trophy participation and international comeback
As per PTI, Shami is likely to participate in one or both of Bengal's initial away Ranji match against UP on October 11, and the subsequent one in Kolkata against Bihar. However, due to a two-day gap between these games, his involvement in both is uncertain. The New Zealand Test series commences from October 19 in Bengaluru, followed by Tests in Pune and Mumbai. Shami is anticipated to play in one of these matches before the Australia tour.
Shami's rehabilitation and training progress
Shami underwent ankle surgery in the UK in February this year, which sidelined him from competitive cricket for a minimum of six months. He has been sharing updates on his rehabilitation process through Instagram videos. These show him engaging in Return To Play (RTP) routines at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, and bowling with a shortened run-up at low intensity.
Selectors' cautious approach toward Shami's return
The selectors are being cautious with Shami's return to avoid any premature rush that could jeopardize his recovery. Their primary goal is to ensure that India's top three pacers - Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj - are fit for the five Tests in Australia. This strategic approach underscores the importance of Shami's role in the team and the careful management of his rehabilitation process.
Jay Shah confident about Shami's availability
In a recent announcement, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah expressed his confidence regarding Shami's availability for the impending Border-Gavaskar Test series Down Under. "Our team is already well prepared. We have rested Jasprit Bumrah for a while now. Mohammad Shami is expected to be fit too," he told the Times of India when asked about India's preparation for the Australia series.
Shami's exploits in WC 2023
To recall, Shami replaced the injured Hardik Pandya in the 2023 ODI World Cup. The former finished as the highest wicket-taker (24) and broke a flurry of records in just seven matches. Shami claimed three five-wicket hauls and a solitary four-fer, including a career-best 7/57 in the semi-final against New Zealand. His average in the tournament read a jaw-dropping 10.70.
