Shami makes India comeback, impresses in T20I practice session

Star fast bowler Mohammed Shami is poised to make his highly anticipated return to the Indian cricket team after recovering from an ankle injury that kept him out for the entire 2024 season. The 34-year-old, who was the top wicket-taker in the 2023 ODI World Cup, last played for India on November 19, 2023. After a successful return to domestic cricket with Bengal in November, Shami has been included in India’s T20I squad for the upcoming five-match series against England.

On January 19, Shami took part in India’s first practice session at Eden Gardens. Reports indicate that while the pacer bowled with intensity for over an hour, he experienced slight discomfort and was seen limping back to the dressing room. However, he soon returned to the field and interacted with his Bengal teammates while managing his heavily strapped left knee.

Shami, who will spearhead India’s pace attack for the series, started his practice with a gentle warm-up session under the guidance of bowling coach Morne Morkel. After initially bowling with short strides, he gradually increased his intensity, bowling a fiery spell with a long run-up, reminiscent of his prime form. He troubled the young batters in the nets, including Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma, extracting bounce and movement. Dhruv Jurel, however, took on Shami with some aggressive shots, challenging the pacer’s rhythm.

Despite the taxing session, Shami completed nearly 45 minutes of intense bowling without needing assistance from the team’s medical staff, signaling a promising return to full fitness.