As Mohammed Shami prepares for the much-anticipated return to the Indian squad for the forthcoming white-ball series against England and the 2025 Champions Trophy, India's premium pacer excelled in Bengal's Vijay Hazare Trophy knockout match against Haryana. Shami has only started playing white-ball cricket again after missing the 2023 World Cup final in November because of surgery on his right heel.
Shami steals show
In the knockout match, Shami made an impression with his three-wicket haul in his 10-over session against Haryana. In the sixth over, Shami made his first breakthrough when he edged a sharp delivery to wicketkeeper Abhishek Porel, removing Himanshu Rana, Haryana's opener. Shami recovered well in the final overs, dismissing Dinesh Bana in the 42nd over and then taking out Anshul Kamboj, despite giving up runs at an economy rate of 6.67 in his opening stint.
In order to make his goals apparent, Shami also posted a video on social media that demonstrated his training. He can be seen working hard in the video as he gets ready for Bengal's next Vijay Hazare Trophy encounter. During his training session, Shami was notably wearing kneecaps for increased protection.
Shami prepares for India's return
Shami's capacity to bowl for extended periods and regularly reach his whole quota has been the biggest worry. His results in the present Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, however, indicate he is prepared. During the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Shami played in nine games and claimed eleven wickets. He returned to bowl eight overs in games against Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, after missing the first round of the Vijay Hazare Trophy because of heel inflammation.
Shami's results in the Vijay Hazare Trophy knockout stages are anticipated to inform the selectors' ultimate choice. He might earn a position in India's team for the Champions Trophy and the England series later this year if everything goes according to plan.
Time is running short for the BCCI's selection committee, which is headed by Ajit Agarkar, to make their final selections before the Champions Trophy squad announcement on January 12th. It is important to remember, nevertheless, that roster modifications are permitted up until one week before to the start of the competition. India's pace assault will be greatly strengthened by Shami's experience and skill if he is included, giving them a significant advantage before the major competition.