Mohammed Shami likely to make a comeback to competitive cricket by representing Bengal in Ranji Trophy: Reports
Senior Team India pacer Mohammed Shami is likely to make a comeback to competitive cricket by representing his state side Bengal in the upcoming season of the Ranji Trophy. If all goes well, he could then return to international cricket during the Test series against New Zealand.
Shami has been out of action due to injury since the conclusion of the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. The right-arm pacer underwent surgery to repair his Achilles tendon in February. Over the last few weeks, the 33-year-old has been constantly sharing updates on his recovery and rehabilitation on his official social media handles.
As per a report in PTI, Shami could play Bengal's opening away Ranji Trophy match against Uttar Pradesh starting October 11. Bengal's next clash in the domestic competition will be against Bihar in Kolkata from October 18. The report added that since there is only a two-day gap between the two matches, Shami is unlikely to feature in both games. He could thus feature in one of the two matches.
As for the India vs New Zealand Test series, it will start on October 16 in Bengaluru. The second Test will be played in Pune from October 24 onwards, while the third and final Test start in Mumbai from November 1. Shami is likely to feature in one of the three Tests against the Kiwis before the Australia tour.
Mohammed Shami had a sensational 2023 ODI World Cup
Before getting injured, Shami had a spectacular 2023 ODI World Cup at home. While the right-arm pacer missed the team's initial few games, he still ended up as the tournament's leading wicket-taker. In seven matches, the Bengal pacer claimed 24 scalps at an average of 10.71, with three five-wicket hauls.
The fast bowler claimed 5-54 against New Zealand in the league stage and followed it up with 4-22 against England and 5-18 against Sri Lanka. He then produced sensational figures of 7-57 in the semifinal against the Kiwis at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Overall, Shami has featured in 101 ODIs and has claimed 195 wickets at an average of 23.68. In Tests, he has 229 wickets to his name from 64 matches at an average of 27.71. The right-arm pacer has also picked up 24 wickets in 23 T20Is at an average of 29.62.