Mohammed Shami Set To Play First 2 Ranji Trophy Matches For Bengal

Senior fast bowler Mohammed Shami, who has been on the mend following an ankle surgery, is gearing up for a potential comeback to competitive cricket with his domestic team, Bengal, in the Ranji Trophy. Shami, a key player for India, is expected to feature in either or both of Bengal’s opening matches in the Ranji Trophy—against Uttar Pradesh on October 11 and against Bihar in Kolkata on October 18. However, given the tight two-day turnaround between these games, it is uncertain whether he will participate in both. Shami’s return to competitive cricket is highly anticipated as he is also projected to make an international appearance later in the Test series against New Zealand. The series begins on October 19 in Bengaluru, followed by matches in Pune on October 24 and Mumbai on November 1. Shami is likely to play in one of these Tests before heading to Australia for the major tour. This tour is crucial as India’s top pacers, including Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj, are central to their strategy for the five-Test series against Australia.

The 34-year-old Shami, who is one of India’s premier fast bowlers, last played for the national team in the ODI World Cup final against Australia in Ahmedabad on November 19, 2023. Since then, he has been sidelined due to his ankle surgery in the UK earlier this year. The surgery required a rehabilitation period of at least six months, making Shami’s return to form and fitness a significant focus. Despite some speculation about his participation in the Duleep Trophy, it was determined that Shami would not be fit in time for that tournament. The selectors have decided against rushing his return, prioritizing his complete recovery to ensure he is fully prepared for the crucial series in Australia. Shami has an impressive record, with 229 wickets in 64 Tests, including six five-wicket hauls and 12 four-wicket hauls. His return is eagerly awaited by both his domestic and international teams.