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Mohammed Shami
Mohammad Shami

Mohammad Shami has been out of action since the ICC World Cup 2023 final with an ankle injury for which he also went under the knife later.

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The veteran Indian pacer, who has not played in the last 10 months due to his rehab after his ankle injury was supposed to be ready for the upcoming Bangladesh Test series at home.

However, with his name not being in the squad for the Duleep Trophy and Bangladesh series, new reports surfaced which suggested that the player and management are trying not to rush things for the return.

After missing the England Tests, IPL, T20 World Cup and Sri Lanka tours already, the 34-year-old is now forecasted to come back for the New Zealand Test series in the next month.

Mohammad Shami on his tentative return

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a CAB event in Kolkata, Shami said, "I am trying to make a return as soon as possible because I know that I have been away from a long time now. But I also want to make sure I have no doubts in my mind when I return.

"The stronger I return, better it is for me, and lesser are the chances for me to get injured again. So it doesn't matter whether I return for Bangladesh, New Zealand or Australia series."

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He added, "I have already started bowling. But as I said, I don't want to take any risk. Until I feel 100 per cent fit, I won't agree to come back, irrespective of the format or the opposition. If I have to play domestic, I will even play that.

As per the reports, the team management are trying to bring him back to competitive cricket through the Ranji Trophy in either of Bengal's games against Uttar Pradesh which will start on October 11 or against Bihar on October 18.

Read More: What is the unique record that awaits India if they win 1st Test match vs Bangladesh?

What did Jay Shah say on Mohammed Shami's comeback

Earlier this month, in an interview with Times of India, BCCI secretary Jay Shah said, "Our team is already well prepared. We have rested Jasprit Bumrah for a while now. Mohammad Shami is expected to be fit too. This is an experienced Indian side now. Seniors like Rohit and Kohli are fit.

"Your question about Shami is right... he will be there because he is experienced, and we need him in Australia."

What next for Indian cricket team?

The Indian cricket team will be back in action on September 19 as they take on Bangladesh in the first Test of the two-match series. 

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Author(s)
Mayank Bande Photo

Mayank Bande is a content producer for The Sporting News’ India edition.