While the Indian cricket team is struggling to handle New Zealand at home, the team will play the next Test series in Australia. There is a big question whether Mohammed Shami will be available for the Australia tour or not. Bengal coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla revealed Shami’s present fitness status. 

India will play a five-match Test series against the hosts Australia from November 22. This Test series will be a part of the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship. While the Indian pacers will have to play an important role in this upcoming tour, Mohammed Shami’s presence can be an important factor for the visitors. 

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Mohammed Shami hasn't played for almost a year

The 34-year-old Mohammed Shami last time played a competitive cricket match during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 Final against Australia at Ahmedabad last November. 

While Shami was suffering from an ankle injury, he underwent surgery in London last February. He is now in the recovery process. He missed out on the home Test series against Bangladesh and the ongoing New Zealand. 

Shami hasn’t played for Bengal either this season. Recently, after India lost against New Zealand in the Bengaluru Test, Shami was seen to bowl in full rhythm at the nets. 

The Bengal coach revealed what Shami said recently

Bengal will play their third game of the Ranji Trophy 2024/25 against Kerala, which they will host from October 26. Although Shami will miss the upcoming challenge against Kerala, he is expected to represent Bengal in the next two Ranji Trophy fixtures.  

Bengal coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla told The Indian Express, “He (Mohammed Shami) is not available for this match (vs Kerala), but we are hopeful that Shami will join us for games against Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh.” 

Bengal coach further revealed that Shami was keen to play some Ranji Trophy matches before traveling to Australia.

Shukla added, “He is a valuable player for India and the team will require his service for the Australia series. Recently, he mentioned how keen he is about playing a couple of Ranji games for Bengal before travelling to Australia. Good outings in the Ranji Trophy will be good for him ahead of the Australia tour and will be a big boost for us our four key players are playing for India and India A.” 

It will be great for the Indian national cricket team if Shami gets some match practice before returning to Test cricket, which he last played during the 2021-2023 ICC World Test Championship Final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023.