Mohammed Shami is set to make his long-awaited return to competitive cricket. The right-arm pacer was initially expected to feature in a couple of Ranji Trophy matches before India’s tour of Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). However, an injury during his rehabilitation delayed his comeback, ruling him out of the BGT squad. Now fully cleared by the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Shami is ready to take the field for Bengal in their Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh at the Holkar Stadium in Indore.
The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has confirmed Shami’s availability, and his presence is expected to significantly boost Bengal’s chances of advancing in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season. After nearly a year away from the game, all eyes will be on Shami to see if he can bowl at full intensity.
This comeback could be a perfect opportunity for Shami to regain his rhythm. Should he need more match practice, he can also participate in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), starting on November 23. If the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) deems him fit, Shami may be called upon for the latter stages of the BGT, potentially reinforcing India’s pace attack alongside JaspritBumrah and Mohammed Siraj.