India’s pace sensation Mohammed Shami is set to make his comeback to competitive cricket in the Ranji Trophy following an extended recovery from an Achilles heel injury. The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) confirmed Shami's return, stating that he will feature in Bengal’s match against Madhya Pradesh, scheduled to begin on Wednesday, November 13, in Indore. Shami’s return comes as a positive development for Indian cricket, especially with a high-stakes Test series against Australia on the horizon.

Shami’s road to recovery and rehabilitation

Shami, who last appeared for India in the ICC World Cup final in Ahmedabad in November 2023, has had a long journey to recovery. His injury began with an Achilles heel issue that required surgical intervention, sidelining him for several months. Unfortunately, his rehabilitation process was further delayed when he experienced swelling in his knee, keeping him out of action longer than initially anticipated. However, the pacer remained proactive, conducting several practice sessions at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru to monitor his fitness and regain form.

The Cricket Association of Bengal expressed optimism about Shami’s fitness, with officials confirming his readiness to join Bengal’s Ranji Trophy squad. "We are thrilled to have Shami back. His recovery and rehab have gone well, and this match will be a great opportunity to gauge his fitness in a competitive setting," a CAB official said.

A boost for India ahead of the Australia tour

Shami’s return to form could come at an ideal time for India, as they prepare for an intense five-Test series against Australia beginning on November 22. Although Shami has not been named in the initial Test squad, India’s management may consider his inclusion if he proves his fitness in the Ranji Trophy. Last month, Indian captain Rohit Sharma hinted at this possibility, expressing hope that Shami would be fit for a part of the Australia tour.

Shami’s skill set makes him a valuable addition, especially in Australian conditions where fast bowlers are often critical. His experience and proven track record could provide a significant advantage to India if he is able to participate. The Test series in Australia is part of the World Test Championship cycle, and India will be keen to field their best possible lineup to secure crucial points. With a successful outing in the Ranji Trophy, Shami might just earn a late spot in the squad if his fitness levels remain steady.

See Also: Injury blow for Sri Lanka as Dushan Hemantha replace Wanindu Hasaranga for NZ ODIs

Ranji Trophy return mark a new chapter

For Shami, the upcoming Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh is not just a test of physical fitness but a chance to reestablish himself in competitive cricket. Fans and selectors alike will be watching closely to see how he performs after the long layoff. His return is highly anticipated, not only by the Indian selectors but also by cricket enthusiasts who are keen to see one of India’s finest pacers back in action.

Veteran India pace bowler Mohammad Shami thinks India have a great chance of making it three-in-a-row against Australia Down Under this winter as well. However, Team India have won the last two away series in Australia, in 2018-19 and 2020-21. And, Australia failed to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy since 2014. Shami was part of the 2018-19 series in Australia but did not play in the team's most recent visit two years later as well.

"I believe India are the favourites to win the series. In the last series in Australia, we played with a young team, with many senior players absent, yet we still proved we were the best. I expect the next series to be highly competitive, but I'm confident that India will come out victorious," said the Indian pacer.

"I don't want to rush myself" - Mohammad Shami

Incidentally, Shami's last Test appearance was against Australia came in the World Test Championship final at The Oval in June 2023. He has been out of action since November last year, having undergone surgery in the meantime as well.

SEE ALSO: Rohit Sharma comments on his retirement plans after quitting T20Is

When asked about his return, Shami said, "I don't want to rush myself, even though I want to come back as soon as possible. It's not advisable to return with any doubt. I need to be stronger, and the stronger I feel, the better it will be. My goal is to return at my strongest. While I aim to come back at the earliest, my priority is to be fully fit. So whether it's for the Australia, New Zealand, or Bangladesh series, it doesn't matter." Shami was speaking at the annual awards function in Kolkata on Saturday night."

"Bangladesh should consider our record, current form, and the strengths of the Indian team" - Mohammad Shami

When he was asked about his current fitness status, Shami said, "I've already started bowling. I want to ensure there are no doubts in my mind and that I must not feel any discomfort. Unless I'm 100 percent in every aspect - both mentally and physically - I won't consider returning to action. It doesn't matter which format I play or which team I'm selected for. If needed, I'll even play domestic cricket."

Shami, who has played 229 wickets in 64 Tests so far, believes India are strong favourites against Bangladesh as well. The two-match Test series against Bangladesh starts in Chennai on September 19 as well.

"It's fine if Bangladesh have beaten Pakistan, but we're playing at home. Bangladesh should consider our record, current form, and the strengths of the Indian team," he concluded. 

The next IPL season will see big changes in the coaching setups of many teams. Gautam Gambhir, Abhishek Nayar, and Ryan ten Doeschate have left Kolkata Knight Riders to join the Indian team’s coaching staff, and Ricky Ponting has ended his time as head coach of Delhi Capitals.

According to News18, head coach Ashish Nehra and Director of Cricket Vikram Solanki might leave Gujarat Titans before IPL 2025. Last season, GT finished eighth on the points table under Shubman Gill’s captaincy, who took over from Hardik Pandya.

Nehra and Solanki joined the Titans in IPL 2022 and led the team to their first title in their debut season, a huge achievement. Titans had a great run in IPL 2023, reaching the final where Chennai Super Kings beat them. However, this year, they missed the playoffs after failing to replace all rounder Hardik Pandya, who was traded to Mumbai Indians, and also missed the injured Mohammad Shami.

Ashish Nehra and Vikram Solanki likely to leave Gujarat Titans

The report mentions that Titans are talking to Yuvraj Singh about joining the coaching staff as Nehra and Solanki are expected to leave.

“Lot of changes on the cards. Ashish Nehra and Vikram Solanki are highly likely to move on and discussions around Yuvraj Singh have already begun. Nothing is finalised right now but there could be some major changes in the coaching staff of the Gujarat Titans,” says a source

Yuvraj Singh in talks for coaching role with Gujarat Titans

Yuvraj has mentored GT captain Shubman Gill before, and they share a great bond off the field, but Yuvraj has no IPL coaching experience.

Gary Kirsten, who was Titans assistant coach for the past three seasons, has already left to become head coach of the Pakistan cricket team. Other coaching staff members like Aashish Kapoor, Naeem Amin, Narender Negi, and Mithun Manhas are also expected to leave if Nehra and Solanki depart.

IPL owners set to meet BCCI

IPL team owners will probably meet with the BCCI on July 30 or 31. The exact date isn’t set yet, but the meeting will happen this month to finalize player retentions and discuss the Impact Player rule and salary cap before the mega auction.

BCCI officials and top executives from various IPL teams have already had one round of discussions. Final decisions will be made when the owners meet with the BCCI’s top leaders.

Taking to social media, Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami shared an update on his ongoing recovery journey following surgery to address an ankle injury. Despite facing challenges, Shami expressed determination and eagerness to return to the cricket field, emphasizing the ultimate goal of success.

Challenges Faced by Shami

Mohammed Shami, known for his lethal bowling prowess, recently underwent surgery to address a nagging ankle injury. This setback forced him to take a break from cricket, including missing out on the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. However, Shami’s spirit remains undeterred as he provides a glimpse into his recovery journey.

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Determination to Return

Despite the setbacks, Shami remains resolute in his quest to return to the cricket field. In a social media post, he shared a photo using crutches, symbolizing his determination and hunger for success. His caption, “Back on track and hungry for success. The road may be tough, but the destination is worth it,” echoes his unwavering resolve to overcome adversity.

Surgery and Recovery

The surgery in February marked a crucial phase in Shami’s recovery journey. While it momentarily sidelined him from cricketing action, it was a necessary step towards his rehabilitation. The road to recovery entails rigorous rehabilitation exercises, physiotherapy sessions, and constant monitoring to ensure a smooth recovery process.

Road to Recovery

Despite the challenges, Shami remains focused on his recovery regimen. His commitment to rehabilitation and adherence to medical advice are critical factors in ensuring a successful comeback. Each day presents new challenges and milestones, but Shami’s determination fuels his progress towards regaining full fitness.

Missed Opportunities

The ankle injury deprived Shami of valuable playing opportunities, including representing Gujarat in the IPL 2024. As the leading wicket-taker in the previous edition of the tournament, his absence was felt by fans and teammates alike. However, Shami’s focus remains on his recovery, prioritizing long-term fitness over short-term gains.

Recent Cricket History

Shami’s last appearance on the cricket field was in the ODI World Cup final against Australia in November 2023. Since then, he has been sidelined due to injury, missing out on various bilateral series and domestic tournaments.

Despite battling injury during the World Cup, Shami emerged as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, showcasing his resilience and skill on the field. His ability to perform consistently at the highest level is a testament to his dedication and hard work.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Shami’s potential return date coincides with India’s home series against Bangladesh in September 2024, as confirmed by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah. However, uncertainties loom over his participation in the T20 World Cup, adding another layer of anticipation to his recovery journey.

Gujarat Titans witnessed a significant shift in team dynamics post the 2023 IPL, primarily due to the departure of former captain Hardik Pandya. The team now looks toward a new leadership era under Shubman Gill.

Impact of Hardik Pandya’s Departure

Pandya’s departure marked the end of an era characterized by his emphasis on team unity over individual brilliance. His leadership guided the Titans to consecutive final appearances, leaving behind a legacy of cohesive teamwork.

New Leadership: Shubman Gill:

With the captaincy mantle passed to Shubman Gill, Gujarat Titans aim to maintain their competitive edge in IPL 2024. Gill’s exceptional batting prowess, coupled with his leadership qualities, positions him as a promising captain for the team.

Challenges Due to Mohammed Shami’s Absence

The absence of Mohammed Shami, last year’s Purple Cap winner, poses a challenge to the Titans’ bowling attack. However, Umesh Yadav’s inclusion and the potential of R. Sai Kishore offer opportunities for the team to adapt and excel.

The Titans’ fortunes rely heavily on the performances of recent recruits Shahrukh Khan and Spencer Johnson, along with seasoned campaigners like Wriddhiman Saha and David Miller. Additionally, with players like Rashid Khan and Rahul Tewatia, the squad’s depth ensures versatility and adaptability.

Best Playing XI for Gujarat Titans

The ideal playing XI for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2024 comprises a blend of experience and youth, with each player bringing unique strengths to the team. From batting stalwarts like Shubman Gill to bowling maestros like Rashid Khan, the XI promises a formidable challenge to opponents.

Gujarat Titans Probable Playing XI: Shubman Gill (C), Wriddhiman Saha (WK), Kane Williamson, Sai Sudharsan, David Miller, Rashid Khan, Mohit Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Rahul Tewatia, Spencer Johnson, Shahrukh Khan

Impact Player: Noor Ahmad

GT players bought at IPL 2024 auction: Azmatullah Omarzai (Rs. 50 lakh), Umesh Yadav (Rs. 5.80 crore), Shahrukh Khan (Rs. 7.40 crore), Sushant Mishra (Rs. 2.20 crore), Kartik Tyagi (Rs. 60 lakh), Manav Suthar (Rs. 20 lakh), Spencer Johnson (Rs. 10 crore), Robin Minz (3.60 crore).

GT IPL 2024 SQUAD COMPOSITION

Wicketkeepers: Mathew Wade (AUS), Wriddiman Saha, Robin Minz.

Batters: Shubman Gill, David Miller (SA), Abhinav Manohar, Kane Williamson (NZ), Sai Sudharsan.

All-rounders: Rashid Khan (AFG), Rahul Tewatia, Jayant Yadav, Vijay Shankar, Azmatullah Omarzai (AFG), Darshan Nalkande, Shahrukh Khan.

Bowlers: Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Josh Little (IRE), R. Sai Kishore, Mohit Sharma, Noor Ahmad (AFG), Sushant Mishra, Kartik Tyagi, Manav Suthar, Spencer Johnson (AUS).

India’s fast bowler, Mohammed Shami, is recovering from ankle surgery and is expected to return during the home Test series against Bangladesh. Shami’s absence during the recent Test series against England was felt, and he will continue to miss the IPL due to surgery. With India hosting Bangladesh in September, Shami’s return will be eagerly awaited by fans for bolstering the bowling attack.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah provided updates on other players’ injuries and rehabilitation efforts. KL Rahul, who missed the final four Tests against England due to injury, has started rehabilitation at the NCA. Rishabh Pant, recovering from a car accident, is progressing well and aims to make a comeback in the IPL, with potential implications for the T20 World Cup.

Shami’s Comeback: Anticipated Return and Road to Recovery

Shah also addressed the topic of foreign investment in the IPL, highlighting the regulatory constraints faced by the BCCI. The BCCI’s status as a society limits its ability to accept external investment without government approval. This clarification underscores the complexities involved in financing Indian sports leagues and the need for regulatory compliance.

The discussion around foreign investment reflects broader regulatory frameworks governing sports governance in India. Adherence to legal requirements is crucial for maintaining transparency and accountability in sports administration. While foreign investment can bring substantial capital, regulatory compliance remains paramount to ensure the integrity of Indian sports leagues.

SEE ALSO: Prioritizing loyalty: RCB adds a KGF twist to Virat Kohli’s 16th IPL anniversary

Jay Shah’s updates provide valuable insights into player recoveries and regulatory challenges facing the IPL. Shami’s anticipated return brings hope for the Indian cricket team, while the progress of players like Rahul and Pant demonstrates resilience. As discussions continue on the future of the IPL and potential investment opportunities, adherence to regulatory norms will remain essential for sustainable growth in Indian sports.

Mohammed Shami’s IPL 2024 Participation with Gujarat Titans in Doubt.Reports from ESPNcricinfo suggest that Mohammed Shami, the pace spearhead of the Indian cricket team, may miss out on featuring for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2024 due to an ankle injury.

Sources indicate that Shami might undergo surgery on his ankle, potentially just before the commencement of the tournament, which could significantly impact his availability, if not ruling him out entirely. Scheduled to run from March 22 to May 26 this year, the IPL faces uncertainty regarding Shami’s involvement.

Since India’s defeat in the World Cup final against Australia on November 19, Shami has been sidelined from cricketing action. Despite nursing his ankle injury throughout the tournament, he emerged as the leading wicket-taker, claiming 24 wickets. His absence would pose a substantial setback for Gujarat Titans, particularly following the departure of another key player, Hardik Pandya, who moved to Mumbai Indians.

Ankle Injury : Shami’s Struggle for Fitness

Shami’s absence would mark a considerable loss for the Titans, given his pivotal role in their victorious 2022 season, where he secured 20 wickets in 16 matches, as well as being the highest wicket-taker in the preceding year’s IPL with 28 wickets in 17 matches.

Throughout the World Cup, Shami relied on injections to manage his ankle discomfort, a treatment that continued post-tournament. Although not included in India’s white-ball squads for the subsequent South Africa tour, he was anticipated to return for the Test series. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ruled him out due to fitness concerns.

Impact on Gujarat Titans: Potential Loss of Key Player

Despite expressing optimism about his recovery, Shami’s absence from India’s squads against England raises doubts. Recent reports indicate his travel abroad for consultation on his ankle condition, hinting at the severity of his injury. While the BCCI’s medical team is monitoring his progress, Shami has not undergone rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, raising questions about communication with the Titans regarding his recovery timeline.

As Shami prepares to consult a specialist and potentially undergo surgery, his fate in IPL 2024 remains uncertain, leaving Gujarat Titans and fans awaiting updates on his condition.

SEE ALSO:Ranchi Test: Joe Root achieves 47th international Century, equals Rohit Sharma’s record

Indian veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami is expected to be sidelined for the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa, commencing on December 26th in Centurion. Currently grappling with an ankle injury, the right-arm quick is on a path to recovery, although the specifics of the injury’s nature and origin remain unclear.

A PTI report confirms Shami’s ankle condition, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) yet to issue an official statement on the extent of his injury. The seasoned pacer, still recuperating from an injury sustained during the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, may be forced to skip the imminent series against South Africa.

As per Cricbuzz, Shami won’t be accompanying the Indian contingent, which includes Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravichandran Ashwin, Navdeep Saini, and Harshit Rana, flying to South Africa via Dubai on Friday.

See Also:Shreyas Iyer Makes a Comeback as Captain for KKR, with Rana Appointed as Vice-Captain

The report suggests that Shami’s availability for the Boxing Day Test, the second and final match of the series, remains uncertain. The decision to include Shami in the South Africa tour was contingent on his fitness, as stated previously by the BCCI, acknowledging his ongoing medical treatment.

India’s Test squad, led by Rohit Sharma, features Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami (subject to fitness), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), and Prasidh Krishna.

Indian fast bowler Mohammad Shami has strongly criticized former Pakistan cricketer Hasan Raza for his unwarranted accusations against the Indian team, the BCCI, and the ICC during the ongoing ICC World Cup 2023.

India has maintained an undefeated record in the current ICC World Cup 2023, winning all eight of their matches and securing a spot in the semi-finals. They have one remaining league stage match against the Netherlands, scheduled to take place in Bengaluru on Sunday.

Mohammad Shami Responds to Hasan Raza’s Accusations

Meanwhile, Hasan Raza, a former Pakistani cricketer, has been making a series of allegations on the Pakistani TV show ABN Sports. His initial claim suggested that the ICC and BCCI were manipulating matches in favor of the Indian team by providing them with different balls than other teams. This allegation arose after India’s impressive victory over Sri Lanka, where they defended a total of 357 runs and bowled out Sri Lanka for just 55 runs, with Mohammad Shami taking 5/18 in that match.

Raza’s second allegation came after India defeated South Africa by 243 runs in Kolkata, where he accused the BCCI of manipulating the Decision Review System (DRS) in India’s favor, specifically referencing a contentious LBW decision against Heinrich Klaasen.

After Raza made these claims about the Indian team receiving different balls, Pakistani cricket legend Wasim Akram humorously expressed interest in having what Raza was having and making such statements, seemingly in jest.

In response to Raza’s statements, Indian pacer Mohammad Shami entered the discussion and admonished Hasan Raza. Shami reminded Raza that the ICC World Cup is a prestigious international event, not a local cricket tournament, and that Raza himself had played international cricket.

See Also:ODI World Cup 2023:Axar Patel Returns to Join the Team in Bengaluru

Shami conveyed his message on his Instagram story: “Sharm karo yaar game par focus karo na ki faltu bakwas par kabhi to dusre ki success ko enjoy kia karo, Chii yaar ICC World Cup hai apka local cricket tournament, nahi hai or aap player hi the naa.”

Furthermore, Shami encouraged Raza to trust the words of his former Pakistani teammate, the legendary pace bowler Wasim Akram. Shami humorously added a trending phrase, saying, “Wasim bhai ne samjhaya hai, explain kia tha phir bhi. Apne player, apne Wasim Akram par yakin nahi apko apna tarif karne main lage hai janab aap to just like a wow.”

Birmingham 2019 still exists strongly in the minds of the Indian Cricket Team. For those who don’t remember, it was in that very game where India’s lack of batting depth created issues. For that game, India went with their four best bowlers Mohammad Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, and Yuzvendra Chahal. The bowlers had a rare off day conceding 337.

In return, India was in the chase for a good part, barely hanging on until they were five down. At five down, the target was getting out of reach but could have been made with a couple of good overs which were possible with MS Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav out there. The next 30 minutes though turned out to be one of the most frustrating periods for the Indian Team as the pair were happy to knock singles and play for net-run-rate.

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They did not have too many options with four number elevens batting from number 8 to number 11. Following the game, India separated Kul-Cha, got Ravindra Jadeja in at number eight and the batting depth improved with Jadeja proving that number eight is crucial as he almost won India a Semi-Final.

Since that World Cup though, the bowling has improved with India now having the option of fielding six bowlers capable of bowling their full quota. With Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya, they have two who can do big jobs with both bat and ball. The pair moved up a batting spot since the last World Cup leaving number eight vacant.

India though now has a challenge with that number eight spot. They have tried Shardul Thakur, who has made a career out of picking wickets out of nowhere with the most innocuous of deliveries. They also have the option of playing a third spinner which could well be Ravichandran Ashwin. The issue though is playing Shardul Thakur may prevent India from playing their four best bowlers.

In an ideal situation, India’s best four bowlers at the moment are Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Mohammad Shami, and Kuldeep Yadav with Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja as the all-rounders. Playing the same bowling attack though could lead to another Birmingham-like scenario with the tail starting at number eight.

Mohammad Shami got his chance in Mohali, which was an ODI for those who believe that number eight to eleven should have the best bowlers in the country. He took five wickets and followed it with an economical spell in the second game as well as showing incredible skill with his swing and seam movement.

Shardul on the other hand was wicket-less and the most expensive bowler, targetted by the Australians in both games. With the bat he was not required as the top seven was more than enough. That though can not be the situation all the time as we have seen. Two games though are a small sample space.

In the recent past, no other Indian bowler barring Mohammad Siraj has played as many ODIs as Shardul Thakur. The Indian camp has given him a role and he has done the job in the past. Finding a way to move a semi-new ball and picking up middle-order wickets, breaking partnerships have been his specialty, which could be very handy at the World Cup.

Skillwise though, he remains far from Shami which leads to the debate on who to play. Do India go with Shami sacrificing batting depth for an off-day or got with Shardul who could give them another bowling option while also lengthening the batting line-up.

Shardul Thakur though has come out as an imperfect solution to a concern in the recent past but has proved his worth with performances when it matters the most. Until the current ODI series, Shardul looked like a direct pick. However, with Shami’s performance and the resurgence of Ravichandran Ashwin, India has a few questions to answer and they could well lean towards playing a third spinner in Ashwin, giving them one of the best bowling options possible while also getting some nice depth with the bat.