Mohammed Shami, India’s premier fast bowler, is determined to make a strong comeback to international cricket after recovering from an ankle injury. Shami, 34, last played in the 2023 ODI World Cup final and has been sidelined since then.
“I am working hard to make a comeback soon because I know I have been out of action for quite some time,” Shami said at the Cricket Association of Bengal’s (CAB) annual awards ceremony. However, he emphasized the importance of ensuring his fitness before returning to the field.
“I want to ensure there is no discomfort when I return. I’ve to work on my fitness, so that there is no discomfort,” Shami said. “The stronger I return, the better it is for me. I don’t want to rush and risk getting injured again.”
Shami has already started bowling but is not taking any chances until he is 100% fit. He is likely to make a comeback to competitive cricket for his domestic side Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, with a potential international appearance later in one of the Test matches against New Zealand.
“If I need to play domestic cricket to test my fitness, I will,” Shami said. “What matters most is that I am fully ready for whatever comes next, regardless of the opposition or format.”
Shami is expected to be a key figure in India’s preparations for the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. “We are the favorites, they should be worried,” Shami said confidently.
