Indian cricketer, Mohammad Shami is all set to make his return to the game in the domestic cricket tournament Ranji Trophy. He has been out of the game for a period of 360 days, due to an ankle injury. The seamer was last seen in the 2023 ICC ODI Cricket World Cup, where India lost in the finals. He led as the highest wicket-taker, claiming 24 wickets in seven matches with an impressive average of 10.70.
The player would be returning to competitive cricket for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy clash against Madhya Pradesh in Indore, beginning November 13. Shami’s fitness was being closely monitored before the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which starts on November 22 in Perth, even though he wasn’t part of the squad. He has spent most of the last six months at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for rehabilitation.
For his return, Mohammad Shami posted a social media post about his comeback to Ranji Trophy for Bengal. He mentioned a quote, “Back in Action”. Shami stated, “360 days is a long long time!! All set for the Ranji Trophy. Now back on the domestic stage with the same passion and energy. Huge thanks to all my fans for your endless love, support, and motivation,– let’s make this season memorable!”
The Indian pacer was expected to return during the Bangladesh tour of India, but he faced an unfortunate swelling on his left knee. He is also expected to play the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which is a 20-over domestic tournament, starting November 23.
His return to full fitness and form will play a significant role in determining the number of bids he receives during the 2025 IPL mega auction. A successful comeback would enhance his value and attract more franchises, who would be eager to secure a player with proven skills and experience. This could lead to greater competition among teams, potentially driving up his price at the auction.
If Shami proves his fitness in the upcoming domestic matches, he could be added to India’s Test squad, which currently includes Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, and Harshit Rana as the main fast bowlers, with Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, and Khaleel Ahmed in the reserves.
