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Ajit Agarkar, the Indian chief selector, has shed light on the anticipated comeback of Mohammad Shami, India’s leading fast bowler, who has been out of action since the ODI World Cup 2023 final in November. 

Shami is progressing well in his recovery and is eyeing a possible return during the forthcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh scheduled for September 2024 at home. Currently, the seasoned pacer is undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru to regain peak fitness.

Ajit Agarkar suggests Mohammad Shami may return for the Bangladesh Tests.

Ahead of the first Test against Bangladesh slated for September 19, Agarkar expressed optimism about Mohammad Shami’s potential return to action in that match. The chief selector disclosed that Shami has recently resumed training and resumed bowling, marking a positive development in his quest to rejoin the national team.

In the interim, Indian selectors and the NCA are closely monitoring Shami’s rehabilitation progress to ensure he achieves peak fitness ahead of the crucial home Test series against Bangladesh. Agarkar emphasized that final decisions on Shami’s inclusion will hinge on his performance in the buildup and evaluations conducted by the NCA.

Ajit Agarkar said at the press conference in Mumbai on July 22: “He (Mohammad Shami) has started to bowl. The first test against Bangladesh is on September 19. That was always the goal (he was making a comeback by that time). Whether he can make it back to the squad by that time, I’ll have to speak with the guys at the NCA.”