19-JULY-2025, 12: 40 PM
Indian pacer Mohammed Shami, who has been sidelined due to a prolonged injury layoff, was notably absent from the Indian squad announced for the upcoming Test tour of England. However, in a significant update for Indian domestic cricket, Shami has now been included in Bengal’s list of probables for the upcoming 2025–26 domestic season. This move could mark the beginning of his path to recovery and a potential return to competitive cricket.
The experienced speedster, known for his match-winning spells across formats, is expected to regain full fitness in the coming months, and his inclusion in the Bengal list signals that he’s gearing up to make a strong comeback through domestic fixtures.
Mohammed Shami Misses England Test Tour
A Prolonged Injury Keeps India’s Ace Pacer Out
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced the squad for the high-profile England Test tour, and the omission of Mohammed Shami was quickly noted by cricket fans and analysts alike. Shami, who has been a crucial part of India’s Test setup, has not featured in any international matches since the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 due to a persistent ankle injury.
Despite undergoing treatment and rehabilitation, his recovery hasn’t been rapid enough to warrant a place in the national squad. The selectors, in consultation with the medical team at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), decided to give him more time before considering him for international duty again.
Bengal Welcomes Mohammed Shami into Probables List
Signs of Recovery and Domestic Comeback Plans
While Shami’s exclusion from the England tour is a blow to the Indian bowling attack, there’s a silver lining. The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has included Mohammed Shami in their list of 30 probables for the upcoming domestic season, including the Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy.
This inclusion indicates that Shami is nearing match fitness and could be preparing for a return to action by representing his home state. It also gives Bengal a major boost, as the presence of such a seasoned international campaigner would lift the morale of the squad and provide much-needed experience to the bowling unit.
According to sources from CAB, Shami will undergo fitness assessments before being cleared for any matches. If all goes well, he could feature in the second half of the domestic calendar.
Mohammed Shami’s Role in Indian Cricket
A Veteran of the Pace Attack
Mohammed Shami has been one of India’s premier fast bowlers across formats, with over 400 international wickets to his name. His ability to swing the ball both ways, reverse it under pressure, and maintain tight lines makes him indispensable—especially in overseas conditions like England.
In the 2023 World Cup, Shami emerged as India’s top wicket-taker despite missing the initial matches. His performances in Tests, especially outside Asia, have been crucial to India’s rise in world cricket rankings over the past decade.
With India preparing for the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle and ICC Champions Trophy, a fit Shami is seen as vital for balancing the bowling lineup.
Reaction from Cricket Fraternity
Support Pours In for Mohammed Shami
Following the squad announcement and news of Shami’s exclusion, several former cricketers and pundits expressed their support for the seasoned pacer. Many believe that Shami’s presence will be sorely missed in seaming English conditions, where his skillset often shines.
Former Indian captain and commentator Sunil Gavaskar said, “Shami is a big-match player. His absence will be felt, but it’s good to see him being considered for Bengal. That shows he’s close to a return.”
The CAB also expressed optimism about his recovery and said it would do everything possible to facilitate his return through domestic cricket. His presence in the Bengal dressing room is expected to inspire younger players aiming for national recognition.
Bengal’s Domestic Ambitions with Shami
Eyes on the Ranji Trophy
Bengal has shown great potential in recent domestic seasons, reaching the Ranji Trophy finals in 2022 and performing consistently across formats. The inclusion of Mohammed Shami adds firepower and leadership to their pace attack.
With other experienced players like Manoj Tiwary transitioning into mentorship roles and a crop of young fast bowlers emerging, Shami’s experience will be invaluable. The CAB has also hinted that Shami could take on a mentoring role when not playing, helping shape the next generation of Bengal cricketers.
If Shami manages to return to full match fitness, he could play a crucial part in Bengal’s campaign and possibly even catch the selectors’ eye again for national duties later in the year.
What’s Next for Mohammed Shami?
The Road to Recovery and Redemption
While fans would have loved to see Mohammed Shami bowling in England, his focus is now on regaining fitness and making a successful comeback. Sources close to the player suggest that he is undergoing final stages of rehab and is hopeful of returning to competitive cricket within a couple of months.
The BCCI, meanwhile, is said to be closely monitoring his progress, and a return through the domestic circuit could serve as the perfect platform for him to showcase his form and fitness. If successful, a spot in India’s squad for upcoming home series or limited-overs tours could be well within reach.
Shami himself has remained quiet but optimistic, posting a cryptic message on social media recently: “Patience and hard work never go to waste.” The message has been interpreted by fans as a signal of his determination to bounce back stronger.
Conclusion: A Temporary Setback for Mohammed Shami
The absence of Mohammed Shami from India’s England tour is a setback not just for the player but also for the Indian team, which loses one of its most reliable Test bowlers. However, the silver lining lies in his inclusion in Bengal’s list of probables—a clear indication that the road to comeback has already begun.
As Indian cricket braces for a challenging season, the return of experienced players like Shami could play a pivotal role in the team’s performance. For now, all eyes will be on the domestic tournaments, where fans and selectors alike will be watching Shami’s progress closely.
Source : ANI
