Tue Nov 12 09:44:06 UTC 2024: ## Shami Returns to Cricket, Eyes Border-Gavaskar Trophy

**Hyderabad, February 7:** Star Indian pacer Mohammed Shami is set to make his comeback to competitive cricket in the Ranji Trophy, raising hopes of his inclusion in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.

Shami, who has been sidelined for nearly a year due to a recurring knee injury, will represent Bengal in their Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday. The Bengal Cricket Association confirmed his return, stating that he had been cleared by the BCCI medical team after recovering from the injury.

The fast bowler, who last played for India in the World Cup final against Australia in November 2022, has been working towards his return to the national team. He underwent surgery for the knee injury and has been diligently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

While Shami was initially expected to return for the New Zealand Test series or the South Africa T20 series, he was overlooked by the selectors. He has expressed his desire to play two Ranji Trophy matches to regain his match fitness before potentially joining the Indian team for the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

However, Shami’s inclusion in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad remains uncertain as he was not picked for the series that begins on November 22. His performance in the Ranji Trophy will be crucial for his selection in the Test squad.

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