Wed Oct 02 19:36:14 UTC 2024: ## Shami’s Return Confirmed for New Zealand Series, Border-Gavaskar Trophy Still a Possibility
**Bengaluru, India:** Mohammed Shami, India’s premier fast bowler, is set to make his much-awaited return to the national team in the upcoming Test series against New Zealand, starting October 16th. The news comes after several reports suggested Shami might miss the series due to an ankle injury.
Shami has been undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for the past year after suffering the injury during the 2023 Cricket World Cup. A BCCI source confirmed to the Times of India that Shami’s recovery is progressing well and he is “a strong contender” for the New Zealand series.
“His rehab is going very well, and he is on track for a return in the New Zealand series,” the source said. “The BCCI specialists are monitoring his progress, and he is making good progress.”
The news of Shami’s potential return for the New Zealand series also raises hopes for his inclusion in the Indian squad for the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, starting in November.
Shami himself dispelled rumors about missing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, taking to X (formerly Twitter) to state that neither he nor the BCCI has made any such announcement. He labelled the reports as “rumors” and urged fans not to believe them.
Shami has been a vital component of India’s bowling attack, particularly in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, having taken 40 wickets in 11 matches. His return will be a significant boost for India, who are aiming to secure a spot in the World Test Championship final.
Meanwhile, the three-match New Zealand series presents an opportunity for India to strengthen their position in the World Test Championship standings. A clean sweep would significantly improve their chances of reaching the final.
First Piper 