NEW DELHI: Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has finally made his much-anticipated return to competitive
cricket
for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy against Madhya Pradesh at the Holkar Stadium in Indore.
What has made this debut extra special is that Shami is being joined by his younger brother,
Mohammed Kaif
, who is also named in Bengal's playing XI for the match.
Kaif, 27, is a right-handed batter and a handy medium-pace bowler for Bengal.
It will be a rare and emotional occasion for the Shami family, marking their first time playing together in a professional First-Class match.
Shami has been sidelined for almost a year after suffering an ankle injury during the 2023 World Cup final, which required surgery.
During his time off, the 33-year-old pacer underwent a rigorous rehabilitation program at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, working tirelessly to regain full fitness.
On the eve of his much-awaited comeback, he expressed his excitement and gratitude for the support he received from fans in a heartfelt post on social media.
"360 days is a long long time!! All set for the Ranji Trophy. Now back on the domestic stage with the same passion and energy. Huge thanks to all my fans for your endless love, support, and motivation,– let’s make this season memorable!" wrote the 34-year-old speedster on X.
The Bengal Ranji team is hoping that Shami’s presence will boost their campaign in the Elite Group C clash against Madhya Pradesh.
On the field, Madhya Pradesh opted to bowl after winning the toss, a decision that quickly paid dividends.
Bengal's top order faced early pressure, losing three wickets within the first 13 overs. Shuvam Dey was the first to fall, dismissed for a duck on the very first ball in the first over by Aryan Pandey.
The pressure mounted further as Sudip Kumar Gharami (10) and Rohit Kumar (0) were both sent back to the pavilion by Kulwant Khejroliya, leaving Bengal reeling at 33-3.
Sudip Chatterjee, the most experienced batter in the line-up, held firm, reaching 14 not out as Bengal’s batting unit struggled to find stability in the early exchanges.
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