Mohammed Shami Poised For Return Against Bangladesh In September Test Series
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has shared an encouraging update on senior pacer Mohammed Shami's fitness, indicating that the goal is to have him ready for the India vs Bangladesh Test series in September.
The 33-year-old bowler has been out of action since the ODI World Cup 2023, where he emerged as the top wicket-taker. Shami has missed significant matches for India due to a right heel injury.
In February this year, Shami underwent surgery on his Achilles tendon and has been under the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) supervision since then. This injury led him to miss several bilateral series, the IPL 2024, and the ICC T20 World Cup.
However, there was a positive development earlier this month when Shami was seen bowling in the nets. He even shared a video on Instagram showing himself cautiously practising.
For Shami to return to competitive cricket, he will need medical clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Chief selector Agarkar mentioned that Shami could be back for the home Test series against Bangladesh in September, depending on NCA's assessment.
"He (Mohammad Shami) has started to bowl. The first test against Bangladesh is on September 19. That was always the goal (he was making a comeback by that time). Whether he can make it back to the squad by that time, I'll have to speak with the guys at the NCA," Agarkar said at the press conference.
Upcoming Matches and Impact
If Shami makes his comeback, it will be after nearly a year of absence since November 2023. His return would significantly strengthen India's pace attack as they aim for their third consecutive World Test Championship final.
India will be engaged in white-ball games over the next few weeks before resuming their red-ball campaign in the WTC 2023-25 cycle with a two-Test series at home against Bangladesh starting on September 19, 2024.
The team is hopeful that Shami's recovery continues smoothly and he can contribute effectively in upcoming matches. His experience and skills are invaluable assets for India's cricketing ambitions.
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