Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami is eager to make an international comeback after a one-year hiatus. He last featured for India in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia. The tournament saw Shami emerging as the leading bowler with 24 wickets in seven appearances at a terrific average of 10.70.
The 34-year-old underwent surgery on his right foot in March this year and missed the entire IPL 2024 season. Recently, he was released by the Gujarat Titans ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.
Shami made a competitive comeback to domestic cricket in the ongoing Ranji Trophy clash against Madhya Pradesh in Indore. Although he went wicketless in the first 10 overs on Day 1, the right-arm pacer looked flawless on Day 2.
He managed to end with figures of 4/54 off 19 overs and took the wicket of opposition captain Shubham Sharma. His efforts helped the side to take a 61-run first innings lead.
Shami posted a video on social media and expressed his confidence and desire to make a return to the national setup. He also thanked the fans for their unwavering support during his phase of recovery after the surgery.
“Finally The wait is over! After 360 days , I’m back on field , stronger and hungrier. 4 wickets for Bengal in Ranji and this is just the start. Every delivery, every wicket is dedicated to YOU, my incredible fans. Your love fuels my passion! Let’s make this season unforgettable! #BackStronger #Bengal #Cricket.”
Interestingly, Shami contributed 37 off 36 in the second innings, with two fours and as many sixes. He lifted Bengal’s total to 276, as they set up a target of 338 for the Madhya Pradesh side. At the time of writing, MP are at 45/0, with Shami conceding 22 runs off four overs.
Mohammed Shami’s childhood coach drops a major update on pacer’s participation in BGT
After recovering from injury and making a competitive comeback, the cricket fraternity and fans have hoped for the return of Mohammed Shami to the Indian team. In this regard, Mohammed Badruddin has revealed an update, which would bring smiles to the faces of the pacer’s fans and admirers.
As per Badruddin, Shami will join the Indian team ahead of the third test against Australia in Brisbane, slated to take place from December 14. Here’s what he said to Indian Express:
“He will be joining the Indian team after the Adelaide (second) Test. Now that he is back, proved his fitness, picked up wickets, he will be crucial for the team in the second half of the tour.”
Shami has been lethal in Australia, picking 31 wickets in eight Test matches, with best figures of 6/56. Certainly, he will play a vital role for the side in the second half of the BGT 2024/25 if he joins the Indian setup.
