Daijiworld Media Network – Kolkata

Kolkata, Jul 19: Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, who was sidelined from India's squad for the ongoing England tour, has found a place in Bengal’s expanded 50-member list of probables for the upcoming domestic season, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. The move opens the door for his potential return to competitive cricket, possibly starting with the Duleep Trophy, scheduled to begin on August 28.

Shami, 34, last represented India in the Champions Trophy earlier this year, where he played a pivotal role in India’s victorious campaign, especially in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah. Leading the pace attack, he claimed nine wickets in five matches, sharing the top spot with spinner Varun Chakravarthy. Despite the wicket tally, concerns over his economy rate—5.68 runs per over—persisted.

Post the Champions Trophy, Shami turned out for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2025. However, his stint was far from memorable. The Hyderabad-based franchise, last year’s runner-up, failed to make the playoffs this season, finishing sixth. Shami managed just six wickets in nine innings while conceding at a costly 11.23 runs per over.

Following a string of poor performances, Shami was excluded from the Indian squad for the England series. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar cited injury concerns for the decision. “The medical team has confirmed he is not fit for this series. He had a setback and underwent MRIs. It’s unfortunate, but we can’t keep waiting. A bowler of his calibre is always in demand, but fitness comes first,” Agarkar had stated.

Shami has been battling fitness issues for over a year. After undergoing ankle surgery in February 2024, he was on the path to recovery before developing pain in his right knee, which continues to hamper his return to full fitness.

If he manages to clear the fitness hurdles, his inclusion in the Bengal squad and possibly the East Zone side for the Duleep Trophy could mark the beginning of his comeback journey ahead of a packed domestic and international calendar.