Shami set to play Ranji Trophy 2024-25 before returning to Indian team

India's star fast bowler, Mohammed Shami, is working towards making a comeback in time for the crucial Test series starting in September. After being sidelined since the end of the 2023 World Cup, Shami hopes to return for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, which begins on September 19. Following this, India will face New Zealand and Australia in additional red-ball matches.

Shami, who played through the World Cup with an injury to his left ankle, underwent surgery and missed both the IPL 2024 and the T20 World Cup 2024. He recently shared a video of his rehabilitation, showing him resuming light training and bowling in the nets.

During a visit to Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Shami spoke with Bengal players and mentioned that while he is unsure of his exact comeback date, he aims to play for Bengal before rejoining the Indian team. 

"It's difficult to say when I will be back. I am trying hard but hopefully, you will get to see me in Bengal colours before I don the India jersey again. I will come to play two or three matches for Bengal and will come fully prepared for it," Shami said.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar also provided an update on Shami, suggesting that the right-arm seamer could return to the Indian squad in time for the Bangladesh Test series. Shami’s decision to participate in domestic matches aligns with BCCI secretary Jay Shah's statement that players need to prove themselves in domestic tournaments to earn a spot in the national team.