Team India’s veteran pacer Mohammed Shami is all set to make his return to cricket as he is set to be featured in two important Ranji Trophy matches for Bengal ahead of the prestigious Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. After sustaining an ankle injury in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia and undergoing Achilles tendon surgery earlier this year, veteran cricketer Mohammad Shami has been sidelined from competitive cricket. At 34, he's been rigorously practicing in the nets, preparing for a highly anticipated comeback. He’s expected to rejoin Bengal for their away games against Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh. Also Read: Virat Kohli Should Play Domestic Cricket Says Anil Kumble However, Bengal's head coach, Laxmi Ratan Shukla, confirmed that Shami would sit out the match against Kerala but remains optimistic about his return soon. Shukla highlighted Shami's importance to both the Bengal squad and Team India, noting that a strong showing in the Ranji Trophy could set the stage for a successful series against Australia. As quoted by TOI, Laxmi Ratan Shukla said: “He is not available for this match (vs Kerala), but we are hopeful that Shami will join us for games against Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh. He is a valuable player for India and the team his service will be required for the Australia series. Recently, he mentioned how keen he is about playing a couple of Ranji games for Bengal before travelling to Australia. Good outings in the Ranji Trophy will be good for him ahead of the Australia tour and will be a big boost for us our four key players are playing for India and India A.” It is very likely that Mohammed Shami will not travel with the Team who are set to depart for the Australia tour just after the completion of the ongoing New Zealand series. Shami may join them later if he can demonstrate his match fitness in the ongoing 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season.