Kolkata: Mohammed Shami’s comeback path could well start at his home state, Bengal. The India pacer, currently undergoing rehabilitation following an ankle injury, is likely to test his recovery in a Ranji Trophy game. Although Bengal will start their Ranji Trophy campaign against Uttar Pradesh on Oct 11, Shami could well be seen in action at the Eden Gardens against Bihar from Oct 18.If found fit, the pacer could also be available for the Tests against New Zealand Pune (Oct 24) and Mumbai (Nov 1).
Shami had a very successful outing during the ODI World Cup, but hasn’t played since then. The national selectors are keen to have the 34-year-old fit for the Australia series
Shami underwent an ankle surgery in the United Kingdom in February this year and was ruled out for a minimum period of six months.
While there are clips on the social media of Shami starting off with his RTP routines (Return To Play) at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, bowling with low intensity shortened run-up.
There is little chance of him being fit for the Duleep Trophy (in September) and the selectors don’t want to take any chances by rushing him earlier than required.
The BCCI is keen to have the top three pacers, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj, ready for the for Test series in Australia.
Shami has so far taken 229 wickets from 64 Tests with six five-wicket hauls and 12 four-wicket hauls. tnn & agencies