Senior Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami is preparing for his return to competitive cricket after a significant injury layoff. Shami, who has been undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru following an ankle injury sustained during the 2023 ODI World Cup, is scheduled to make his comeback in October.
Domestic Comeback with Bengal
According to a PTI report, Shami will feature in the Ranji Trophy for his domestic team, Bengal, marking his first competitive appearance in 10 months. The tournament begins on October 11, and Shami is expected to participate in Bengal’s opening fixtures against Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Given the tight schedule with only a two-day gap between these matches, Shami may only play in one of these games.
International Return
Following his stint in domestic cricket, Shami will join the Indian squad for the Test series against New Zealand, starting October 19 in Bengaluru. The series will continue with matches in Pune (October 24) and Mumbai (November 1). Shami’s return to the international arena is highly anticipated as India prepares for the subsequent Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia.
Injury and Recovery
Shami, who last played for India in the ODI World Cup final against Australia on November 19, 2023, has been recovering from ankle surgery conducted in the UK earlier this year. Initially expected to be out for at least six months, Shami’s recovery has been closely monitored. Despite some speculation about his return, including concerns over his absence from the 2024 Duleep Trophy squads, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has confirmed Shami’s inclusion in the Australian tour.
Preparation for Australia Series
Shah assured that Shami would be a key player for India in the upcoming series against Australia. “Our team is well-prepared, and with Jasprit Bumrah rested, we expect Shami to be fit and ready for Australia,” Shah stated. Shami’s experience will be crucial as India looks to maintain its competitive edge in the high-profile series Down Under.
Shami’s return is a significant boost for India, with his pace and experience expected to play a vital role in the team’s performance over the coming months.
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