Mohammed Shami Likely To Play For Bengal In Ranji Trophy

Mohammed Shami, currently recovering from ankle surgery, is anticipated to make his return to competitive cricket with Bengal in the Ranji Trophy. He is also expected to feature in the Test series against New Zealand.

Shami is likely to play in one or both of Bengal’s opening Ranji matches: the away game against Uttar Pradesh on October 11 and the home fixture against Bihar on October 18. Due to the tight schedule, he may not participate in both games.

The Test series against New Zealand begins on October 19 in Bengaluru, with subsequent matches in Pune on October 24 and Mumbai on November 1. Shami is projected to join the Indian squad for one of these Tests before heading to Australia for the tour.

The 34-year-old last represented India in the ODI World Cup final against Australia on November 19, 2023. Following his ankle surgery in February, Shami has been sidelined, with a recovery period initially set at six months.

Although he has been seen doing low-intensity drills at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, he was not expected to be fit for the Duleep Trophy.

The focus is on ensuring Shami, along with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, is fully prepared for the five-Test series in Australia. Shami has accumulated 229 wickets in 64 Tests, including six five-wicket hauls and twelve four-wicket hauls.

ALSO READ:: Shami Nears Full Recovery As India Anticipates His Return For Bangladesh Test Series