Mohammed Shami to Play Two Ranji Trophy Games for Bengal Before BGT 2024-25

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Read Original Content: Mohammed Shami to Play Two Ranji Trophy Games for Bengal Before BGT 2024-25

Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami is gearing up to make his return to cricket by featuring in two crucial Ranji Trophy matches for Bengal. These games will serve as his preparation before joining the Indian squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 in Australia.

Mohammed Shami’s Return via Ranji Trophy

The experienced bowler has been away from action since the ODI World Cup 2023 final. Shami, who claimed 24 wickets during the tournament with an outstanding average of 10.70, had to undergo surgery in London earlier this year due to an injury. Initially, the plan was for him to return during India’s home Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, but a swollen knee delayed his comeback.

Bengal coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla confirmed Shami’s involvement in the upcoming domestic matches.

“He is not available for the match against Kerala, but we are hopeful that he will join us for the games against Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh,” Shukla told The Indian Express.

Shami is expected to reunite with the Bengal team in Bengaluru for the match against Karnataka starting on November 6, followed by another fixture in Indore against Madhya Pradesh.

Fitness a Priority for Australia

Due to his Ranji commitments, Shami won’t travel with the initial batch of the Indian squad to Australia. The team is scheduled to depart shortly after the third Test against New Zealand wraps up in Mumbai. Captain Rohit Sharma previously emphasized the importance of having a fully fit Shami for the challenging series.

“We want him to be 100 percent ready. More than anything, we don’t want to send an underprepared Shami to Australia,” Rohit remarked.

Coach Shukla also stressed the importance of Shami’s domestic appearances, not just for Bengal but also for his personal form heading into the Australia series.

“Shami himself expressed a strong desire to play these games before flying to Australia. It’s essential for him to stay in the playing rhythm. His presence is a big boost for Bengal, especially with four of our key players busy with India and India A duties,” Shukla added.

These Ranji games offer Shami the perfect opportunity to regain match fitness, ensuring that he is battle-ready when he rejoins the Indian squad for the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Read Original Content: Mohammed Shami to Play Two Ranji Trophy Games for Bengal Before BGT 2024-25

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