Team India’s pace spearhead, Mohammed Shami, is on the brink of a return to competitive cricket after being sidelined since the ODI World Cup 2023. The seasoned fast bowler, who has been recovering from an ankle injury that required surgery earlier this year, has made significant progress in his rehabilitation and is now gearing up to rejoin his domestic team, Bengal, for the upcoming Ranji Trophy season.
Shami’s Road to Recovery
Shami’s injury during the ODI World Cup 2023 was a significant setback, forcing him out of action for several months. His recovery journey began with surgery on his ankle, followed by a rigorous rehabilitation process. Currently, Shami is in the final stages of his recovery and has started bowling with full intensity. He has been training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, where he has been working tirelessly to regain his match fitness.
Inclusion in Bengal’s Ranji Trophy Squad
In a promising development, Mohammed Shami has been named in Bengal’s 31-member probable list for the upcoming domestic season. This inclusion signals his imminent return to the field, with expectations that he will feature in Bengal’s opening Ranji Trophy match against Uttar Pradesh on October 11. If not in the first match, Shami could make his comeback in Bengal’s second match against Bihar, scheduled to take place in Kolkata from October 18.
This opportunity to play in the Ranji Trophy will be crucial for Shami as he looks to regain his rhythm and match fitness ahead of potential international commitments. His participation in the domestic season will not only boost Bengal’s chances but also allow him to fine-tune his skills in a competitive environment.
Shami’s Prospects for Team India Return
While Shami’s immediate focus is on the Ranji Trophy, his ultimate goal is to don the Indian jersey once again. Team India’s upcoming domestic season presents several opportunities for his return to international cricket. The first major series on the horizon is a Test series against Bangladesh, starting on September 19. This series could see Shami back in action for India, provided he clears the final fitness tests and performs well in the Ranji Trophy.
Following the Bangladesh series, India will face New Zealand in a three-Test series beginning on October 19. If Shami is not selected for the Bangladesh series, the New Zealand matches could be his next target. However, the most anticipated challenge lies in the Australia tour, where India will play a crucial five-match Test series. Given the significance of this series, Shami’s experience and skills could be vital for India’s success.
A Family Affair: Shami and Kaif in Bengal’s Squad
In an interesting twist, Mohammed Shami’s younger brother, Mohammed Kaif, is also part of Bengal’s 31-member probable list. This opens up the possibility of the two brothers playing together in the Ranji Trophy, adding a personal touch to Shami’s comeback story. Additionally, veteran wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha, who returned to Bengal after a stint with Tripura, is also part of the squad, bringing further experience and depth to the team.
Last season, Bengal’s performance in the Ranji Trophy was underwhelming, as the team failed to progress beyond the group stage. With Shami’s return, along with other key players, Bengal will be aiming for a much-improved showing this time around.
As Shami inches closer to his return, cricket fans and selectors alike will be keenly watching his performances, hoping that he can once again lead India’s pace attack with the same fire and precision that has made him one of the most respected fast bowlers in the world.
