New Delhi: Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami is on the road to recovery from an ankle injury that has kept him out of cricket since the ODI World Cup in November last year. Shami is expected to return to play in India's domestic season, which begins with the Test series against Bangladesh in September. The selectors have been informed about his recovery, and a decision will be made soon regarding his participation in the Duleep Trophy, starting in Anantapur on September 5. This will allow Shami to showcase his fitness.
Currently, Shami is in the final stages of rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. He resumed bowling last month for the first time since his surgery and has been gradually increasing his workload as he recovers from pain. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed before the team's departure for the Sri Lanka tour in July that Shami had resumed bowling and is targeting the first Test against Bangladesh, which starts on September 19 in Chennai, for his comeback.
In Kolkata last month, Shami expressed his desire to play for Bengal before rejoining the Indian team. He had informally participated in fitness sessions with state players. Even if he misses the domestic Test matches against Bangladesh and New Zealand, Shami will have ample time to prepare for the tour of Australia.
India will depart for Australia immediately after the third Test against New Zealand, which concludes on November 5. To accommodate the weather conditions, especially in North India during the winter, the BCCI has divided the first-class season into two parts. The Ranji Trophy will commence in October. Additionally, India's A team will play two first-class matches in Australia starting October 31, providing Shami with further opportunities if needed.
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