Mohammed Shami set for red-ball return ahead of crucial India Test series

Shami, who is a key member of India’s fast bowling trio alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, will be vital for India's chances in Australia

PHOTO: AFP

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami is gearing up for his return to cricket, starting with his domestic state team, Bengal, in the upcoming Ranji Trophy season. Shami, who has been sidelined due to an Achilles Tendon surgery earlier this year, is gradually regaining full fitness.

Shami has been undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, where he has started bowling at full strength. However, he still needs some more time to be fully match-ready.

According to reports, Shami is expected to play either the first or both of Bengal's opening matches in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season. Bengal's first game is scheduled against Uttar Pradesh on October 11, followed by a home fixture against Bihar on October 18 in Kolkata. Given the close scheduling of these matches, it’s likely that Shami will play just one of the two to manage his workload.

Initially, there were discussions about Shami participating in the Duleep Trophy 2024, but the selectors decided it would be too soon for him to return. Instead, they opted to give him additional time to ensure he is fully fit.

Looking ahead to his international comeback, Shami is expected to rejoin the Indian team for the Test series against New Zealand, starting on October 19 in Bengaluru. The series, which also includes matches in Pune and Mumbai, could see Shami play one of the three Tests before the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 in Australia.

Shami, who is a key member of India’s fast bowling trio alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, will be vital for India's chances in Australia. His experience and success in Australian conditions make him an essential player for the team.

Shami’s last appearance for India was in the ODI World Cup final 2023 against Australia, where he was the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 24 wickets in just seven matches. Despite missing the IPL 2024 and the T20 World Cup 2024, Shami’s return is highly anticipated as India prepares for a busy cricketing season.