Mohammed Shami Impressive Ranji Return Sparks Potential Inclusion in India Australia Tour
Indian pacer Mohammed Shami could soon join the Indian team in Australia following an impressive return to domestic cricket. Playing for Bengal in a Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh, Shami marked his comeback by claiming four wickets. This performance has fueled speculation that he may be added to the Indian squad during their Australia tour, bolstering the team’s fast-bowling unit.
This was Shami’s first red-ball match in nearly a year, and he made a notable impact. Bowling four spells, he delivered 19 overs and secured figures of 4/54. His wickets included prominent batsmen such as Madhya Pradesh’s captain Shubham Sharma, all-rounder Saransh Jain, and two tail-enders, with three of the dismissals being bowled and one caught behind by Wriddhiman Saha. While these results are encouraging for the Indian camp, the decision to include Shami in the squad hinges on further assessments of his fitness and endurance in the ongoing match.
National selectors and team management are closely monitoring Shami’s recovery and performance. The BCCI’s medical team, led by Dr. Nitin Patel, will evaluate how well his body withstands the rigors of competitive play, including any potential swelling or discomfort. Should Shami meet the necessary criteria, he could potentially join the Indian squad ahead of the second Test, which will be a day-night encounter. The Ranji match is slated to conclude on November 16, and although there is a possibility of him joining the team in time for the first Test in Perth on November 22, the timeline may be tight.
If Shami is cleared to travel, he may participate in a two-day day-night practice game against the Prime Minister’s XI. For now, his selection remains contingent upon continued performance without physical setbacks. The Indian team and selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, are eager to bring him back into the fold, especially given his formidable partnership with Jasprit Bumrah.
Shami’s journey back to competitive cricket has been challenging. Following the ODI World Cup final on November 19 last year, he underwent ankle surgery. His expected return during a Test series against New Zealand was delayed due to knee swelling. The national selection committee has remained cautious in his reintegration, emphasizing his physical readiness.
According to sources from the Cricket Association of Bengal, national selector Ajay Ratra, along with medical staff from the National Cricket Academy (NCA), specifically observed Shami’s performance during the match. Their findings will be shared with chief selector Ajit Agarkar, captain Rohit Sharma, and head coach Gautam Gambhir. The feedback will be instrumental in determining Shami’s fitness for international competition.
A source within the BCCI revealed that Shami’s participation in this Ranji match was deliberately planned, as there would be no further domestic opportunities until January 23, after the Test season concludes. This match served as a crucial test of his readiness. Shami’s bowling across multiple spells, including delivering 90 dot balls, was observed with keen interest. The second innings will be equally important in gauging his resilience and any post-match discomfort.
The BCCI insider emphasized that even if Shami completes his second innings workload satisfactorily, he will undergo a final assessment after a four-day rest period. If there are no adverse signs, he is expected to join the squad for the second Test. The team management, medical staff, and selectors are collectively focused on ensuring Shami’s complete fitness before reintegrating him into international competition.
Shami’s return would be a significant boost for India’s bowling attack, providing depth and experience. His journey back to fitness and form reflects his determination to contribute once again at the highest level. While the decision remains pending, fans and cricket enthusiasts eagerly await news of Shami’s potential return to bolster India’s pace arsenal in Australia.