Ranji Trophy 2024: Shami Set to Make Comeback for Bengal in Ranji Trophy After Injury Layoff

The 33-year-old has been on a recovery since India’s ODI World Cup final in November 2023, following an ankle injury. After undergoing critical surgery, Shami was initially expected to return during India’s home season. However, a recent knee setback further delayed his comeback for the Indian team. Bengal, currently placed fifth in the points table with 8 points from four games, coming off a crucial win against Karnataka, will be highly benefited following Shami’s comeback in the team. Former Bengal skipper and current coach Lakshmi Ratan Shukla said,

He is a valuable player for India and the team his service will be required for the Australia series……..Good outings in the Ranji Trophy will be good for him ahead of the Australia tour and will be a big boost for us. Our four key players are playing for India and India A.

Although Shami was not included in India’s 18-man squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he remains optimistic about his chances of joining the team later in the series, potentially for the second half. Shami said,

If I get fit and get a gap of 8-10 days, it’s better that I play one or two domestic matches before going to Australia. I don’t know when I can play next, but the day I feel comfortable about bowling 20-30 overs and get the nod from the doctors, I’ll run to play a match.

His workload is expected to be managed carefully, with the focus now on building up his fitness for a potential return to Australia later in the tour.