Team India recently concluded a three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, played away from home, which ended on August 7. With no matches scheduled until September 19, India’s next big challenge will be a home Test series against Bangladesh. This two-match series is poised to provide a significant narrative, with fast bowler Mohammed Shami expected to make his return to Test cricket for the first time since the World Cup final on November 19, 2023.
The World Cup final was a memorable but challenging occasion for Shami. Despite playing with an ankle injury throughout the tournament, he pushed through the pain barrier, showcasing his commitment to the team. However, the physical toll was significant, and Shami has not participated in any competitive cricket since that pivotal match. To facilitate his recovery, he underwent surgery in February this year and has been in rehabilitation ever since.
According to a report from ESPNcricinfo, Shami has made substantial strides in his recovery journey. The prospect of him being fit in time for the Test series against Bangladesh is looking increasingly hopeful. Still, fitness is not just a matter of hope; it needs to be proven through actions on the field.
To be eligible for selection, Shami will have to demonstrate his fitness in the upcoming Duleep Trophy, which is slated to commence on September 5 in Anantpur. This domestic tournament will serve as a crucial juncture for Shami to prove that he is physically ready to withstand the rigors of Test cricket once again. He is currently in the final preparation stages of his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. Over the past month, he has resumed bowling and gradually increased his workload to get back into match fitness.
India’s Chief Selector, Ajit Agarkar, provided an update on Shami’s progress just before India’s departure to Sri Lanka last month. Though cautiously optimistic, Agarkar noted that while Shami had resumed bowling—a positive sign—there was still no certainty about his match-readiness for the upcoming home season.
“We more or less know who the players are, and there are some injuries we are monitoring,” said Agarkar. “There is hope that they [the injured players] will be back up and running soon. Shami has started to bowl, which is a good sign.
. September 19 is the first Test, and that has always been the target for his recovery. But whether he will actually be ready by then is something the guys at the NCA will have to confirm.”
Agarkar acknowledged the importance of depth in the fast-bowling department, especially with a busy calendar ahead. “There are so many Tests coming up. We will need some depth. Bumrah, Shami, and Siraj have been around for a while, these are the obvious choices. But there will be conversations around it. We’ve got a lot of first-class cricket coming up so we can build guys up that way,” he added.
If Shami does prove his fitness and makes the cut for the series against Bangladesh, it would mark a significant milestone in his career. Returning from injury is always challenging, particularly for fast bowlers who put tremendous strain on their bodies. However, Shami’s experience and skill set make him an invaluable asset to India’s bowling lineup, known for its pace and aggression.
Shami’s inclusion would not only bolster the team but also provide vital experience. With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj already established as formidable pace options, adding Shami to the mix would give India an arsenal capable of troubling the best batsmen in the world. The upcoming series offers a golden opportunity for the Indian pace attack to showcase their skills and set the tone for the rest of the season.
In summary, as the two-match Test series against Bangladesh looms closer, all eyes will be on Mohammed Shami. His return has the potential to significantly impact India’s performance, given his history of decisive contributions in Test matches. The forthcoming weeks in the Duleep Trophy will be crucial in determining whether Shami can script a successful comeback story, adding another chapter to his illustrious career. The cricketing world eagerly awaits his next delivery, hoping it will signal a triumphant return to the field.
