India’s fast bowler Mohammed Shami is finally making a comeback after almost a year out of the game. He’s set to play in Bengal’s next Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh starting November 13 in Indore. This will be Shami’s first game since he played the ODI World Cup final against Australia last year in Ahmedabad.

All Eyes on Mohammed Shami’s Fitness Ahead of Australia Series

Shami’s return is a big deal for India. Coaches and selectors are keeping a close eye on him since he could be a huge asset for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, starting November 22 in Perth. Right now, Shami isn’t on the squad for the five-Test series, but he’s hopeful a strong Ranji performance could change that.

Shami has mentioned he’d love to play one or two Ranji Trophy matches to get into shape before possibly heading to Australia. But he’s on a tight schedule, as there’s only one round of red-ball games left before the season shifts to shorter formats.

If Shami feels he needs more match practice, he might play in the 20-over Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which starts on November 23—just a day before the IPL mega auction. Shami’s been off the field mainly because of an ankle injury that needed surgery back in March. Since then, he’s been training hard at Bengaluru’s National Cricket Academy (NCA), dealing with issues like an Achilles tendon injury and a side strain.

India’s Test Squad May Get a Boost

If Shami plays well in the upcoming Ranji game, he could potentially be added to India’s Test squad for Australia. Right now, India’s fast-bowling lineup includes Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, and Harshit Rana, along with a few reserves. But adding Shami’s experience could make a big difference.

Initially, Shami was expected to be fit for India’s home series against Bangladesh. But then he had knee swelling, which delayed his return, and India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, said that this setback slowed down Shami’s recovery.

White-Ball Comeback in January?

If he’s not ready for the Australia series, Shami might make his comeback in India’s white-ball series against England in January, gearing up for next year’s Champions Trophy. India will be glad to have him back—Shami’s one of their best fast bowlers and was a top wicket-taker in the ODI World Cup with 24 wickets in seven games.

“Huge News for Team India,” Says Coach

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma seemed thrilled about Shami’s return. The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) announced the news on Tuesday, calling his return a “boost to Bengal and Team India.” Shami is expected to join his Bengal teammates in Indore just before the match.

Having Shami back is a relief for Team India, especially since they struggled in the recent series against New Zealand. Bringing Shami’s experience and skills back into the mix could lift their chances against Australia. He’s known for his powerful bowling and was India’s top bowler in the World Cup.

Looking to Australia

Fans and the Indian team are hoping Shami’s return brings good luck. With Mohammed Siraj having a rough patch, Shami could be the support Jasprit Bumrah needs on the fast Australian pitches.

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