India’s star fast bowler Mohammed Shami is set to feature in Bengal’s Ranji Trophy campaign, playing two crucial matches ahead of India’s highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy tour to Australia. Shami, who hasn’t played competitive cricket since his stellar performance in the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup, is expected to return to the field for Bengal’s away matches against Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh.
This development comes as a welcome boost for Bengal, whose squad is already without several key players involved in international duties for India. Shami, known for his pace and accuracy, will look to regain match fitness in domestic cricket before joining the Indian team for the high-profile Test series in Australia.
Shami to Rejoin Bengal Squad
The Bengal team management has expressed optimism about Shami’s participation in the Ranji Trophy matches, with coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla confirming that the 34-year-old will be available for Round 3 and Round 4 fixtures. Shami is expected to join the team in Bengaluru ahead of the crucial away game against Karnataka, scheduled to begin on November 6. He will then likely feature in the following match against Madhya Pradesh in Indore.
“He is not available for this match (vs Kerala), but we are hopeful that Shami will join us for games against Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh,” said Shukla. “He is a valuable player for India, and his services will be required for the Australia series. Shami has expressed his desire to play a couple of Ranji Trophy games before travelling to Australia, and it will be great preparation for him. It’s a big boost for Bengal as well, especially since four of our key players are away playing for India and India A.”
Preparations for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Shami’s return to the domestic circuit is not just a matter of strengthening Bengal’s bowling attack but also part of his preparation for India’s tour of Australia. The Indian team will face the mighty Australian side in the four-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which is scheduled to commence later this year. India’s fast bowling attack will be pivotal in their bid to retain the trophy, and Shami’s form and fitness will be crucial to their success.
After a stellar performance in the 2023 World Cup, where he took 24 wickets at an impressive average of 10.70, Shami underwent surgery in February following an injury. His recovery process has seen its share of challenges, with a knee issue delaying his return to competitive cricket. Despite the setbacks, Shami remains determined to make a strong comeback for India.
A Key Player for India’s Australia Tour
Shami has a remarkable record in Australian conditions. His contributions were vital in India’s historic Test series win in Australia in 2018-19, where he took 16 wickets in four matches. However, during India’s next tour to Australia in 2020-21, Shami sustained an injury in the first Test and was subsequently ruled out of the remainder of the series. His experience and previous success down under will be key for India in the upcoming series.
Team India captain Rohit Sharma, while addressing Shami’s potential return, had earlier emphasized the importance of the fast bowler being fully fit before heading to Australia. “We are keeping our fingers crossed. We want him to be fit; we want him to be 100 percent. More than anything else, we don’t want to bring an undercooked Shami to Australia,” said Rohit.
Bengal to Benefit from Shami’s Presence
For Bengal, Shami’s availability for the upcoming Ranji Trophy matches offers a significant boost to their bowling lineup, which has been affected by the absence of several key players on national duty. His presence will bring experience, skill, and leadership to the team. A good performance in these domestic matches will also set a positive tone for Shami as he prepares to lead India’s pace attack in the grueling conditions of Australia.
With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy just around the corner, Shami’s return to match action is an encouraging sign for both Bengal and Indian cricket fans. His readiness for the Australia tour will be closely watched, and good outings in these Ranji Trophy games could provide the perfect platform for his international return.
Stay Tuned for More Updates
As Shami gears up for his Ranji Trophy comeback, fans and cricket enthusiasts alike are eager to see him back in action. Stay tuned for more updates on Shami’s performance in the domestic circuit and his preparations for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as we bring you the latest news and developments from the world of cricket.
