BGT 2024-25: Shami to play two Ranji matches as tune-up for Australia Series, confirms LR Shukla
Xtra Time Web Desk: Bengal coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla recently shared that fast bowler Mohammed Shami is eager to play two matches in the Ranji Trophy before heading to Australia for the upcoming five-match Test series. Shami, still on his way to full match fitness, was expected to participate in Bengal's current Ranji Trophy 2024-25 campaign but has yet to appear in their opening two games.
Providing an update, Shukla mentioned Shami will miss Bengal's third match against Kerala. However, he is likely to play in the fourth and fifth fixtures against Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh. Shami faces a tight deadline to regain full fitness ahead of the first Test against Australia, beginning November 22.
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“He 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 Laxmi Ratan Shukla told.
Further speaking ahead, Sukla highlighted Shami’s importance for India in Australia and said that playing a couple of Ranji matches will see him in good stead ahead of the series.
“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,” said Shukla.
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Mohammed Shami recently shared encouraging news about his recovery following heel surgery in February, expressing satisfaction with his progress. After India’s first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, he was seen bowling to assistant coach Abhishek Nayar and confirmed he’s now completely pain-free. Shami also posted a video of himself bowling at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, showcasing his improved fitness.
India will be counting on Shami’s experience in the upcoming Australia series, especially as Mohammed Siraj has been struggling for form in the current home season, and Akash Deep is set to embark on his first tour to Australia.
