In a major boost to the Indian cricket team, the experienced pacer Mohammed Shami is set to return to competitive cricket in October. Shami is yet to play any form of cricket in 2024 as he continues to recover from ankle surgery but is reportedly expected to feature in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 matches for Bengal starting on October 11.
The 33-year-old Shami last played for India during their heartbreaking World Cup 2023 final loss against Australia in November last year. He underwent an ankle surgery and has been on the sidelines since then.
According to a report from the PTI, the star pacer is likely to play Bengal's opening two matches in the Ranji Trophy. Bengal will kick off their campaign against Uttar Pradesh on October 11 and next face Bihar on October 19. Shami is expected to feature in the first or both matches to regain match fitness.
India host New Zealand for three Tests starting on October 19 in Bengaluru and Shami is likely to miss the opening match. He might return to international scenes for the second and third Test against New Zealand and is tipped to feature in the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy as well.
The Indian management is looking to keep pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Shami fit for the Australia tour. The management is likely to rely on spin strength at home conditions against New Zealand and is expected to keep their pace attack fresh for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
India also take on Bangladesh in two Tests at home starting on September 19 but it will be too early for Shami to make an international comeback. India face no major injury concerns going into the busy schedule. The management is carefully monitoring Jasprit Bumrah as well who was given an extended rest after the T20 World Cup 2024.
