Mohammed Shami named in Bengal's probables list for 2024-25 season
Veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami, sidelined since last November due to an ankle injury, has been named in Bengal's 31-member probables list for the upcoming domestic season. The cricketer is nearing full fitness and has resumed bowling at full capacity. He aims to make a comeback during India's international home season, starting with the first Test against Bangladesh on September 19 in Chennai.
Shami's training and upcoming matches
Shami is expected to continue his training under the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. Earlier this month, PTI reported that he may play one or both of Bengal's away match against Uttar Pradesh starting October 11, and the home fixture against Bihar beginning October 18. Prior to India's tour of Sri Lanka in July, chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed that Shami had "started to bowl" and the first Test against Bangladesh was "always the goal" for his comeback.
Shami's future matches and team departure
Even if Shami misses some or all of India's home Tests - two against Bangladesh and three against New Zealand - he still has ample time to regain his bowling rhythm for the tour of Australia. The team is scheduled to depart shortly after the third Test against New Zealand, which concludes on November 5. Mohammed Kaif, Shami's younger brother, and Wriddhiman Saha have also been included in Bengal's longlist for the 2024-25 season.
Bengal's performance in the previous season
In the previous season, Bengal failed to advance from their group in the Ranji Trophy, finishing third behind Mumbai and Andhra in Group B. They were eliminated in the quarter-finals of the List A Vijay Hazare Trophy. In addition, they were knocked out in the preliminary quarter-final of the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament.
