Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami is eyeing a triumphant comeback after recovering from an ankle injury, with plans to rejoin the team during the upcoming five-match home Test series against England.
Shami, who missed the South Africa Tests due to the injury, expressed optimism about returning to international cricket during the ICC World Test Championship series against England.
In an exclusive interview with Times of India, Shami shared that his rehabilitation is progressing well, despite experiencing slight stiffness in his ankle. He reassured fans that the medical experts at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) have been satisfied with his recovery.
“I have started my training sessions and I believe I will be able to make a comeback in the England series,” Shami stated, revealing his determination to return to the pitch.
The talented fast bowler’s last appearance in a Test match was during the World Test Championship final against Australia. Subsequently, he was rested from the Caribbean tour and had to sit out the South Africa Tests after initially being named in the squad.
Unfortunately, the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) medical team did not clear Shami for the South Africa tour, leading to his withdrawal from the squad.
Despite his absence, the Indian team displayed exceptional bowling performances, securing crucial World Test Championship points and briefly claiming the top spot in the standings. However, Australia’s victory over Pakistan saw them surpass India in just two days.
Reflecting on the team’s outstanding bowling effort in South Africa, Shami expressed his hope of returning to action during the upcoming five-match series against England.
The Test series is set to commence on January 25 in Hyderabad, with Vizag, Rajkot, Ranchi, and Dharamsala hosting the subsequent Test matches. The series promises intense cricketing action and is scheduled to run until early March.
Cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate Shami’s return to bolster the Indian bowling attack, and his potential comeback during the England series adds an extra layer of excitement to this highly anticipated Test battle.