India pacer Mohammed Shami will not feature in Bengal’s upcoming match against Karnataka, as reported by IANS.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided not to rush Shami back into action.
Reports indicate that Shami is expected to play in Bengal’s match against Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25, beginning November 13 at the Holkar Stadium in Indore.
A source close to Shami confirmed, “He will not be playing the game against Karnataka but is likely to play the match against Madhya Pradesh. The BCCI wants to ensure he isn’t rushed into action, and Shami himself prefers to return at his own pace.”
Shami, who resumed full-speed bowling in the nets, stated during a promotional event in Gurugram that he is *“100% pain-free”* and intends to play a few Ranji games before rejoining the India squad.
Although not named for the initial Test matches against South Africa, reports suggest he could feature in the later games, potentially joining from the third Test starting December 14 in Brisbane.
Shami’s return was initially planned during the Test series against New Zealand, but swelling in his right knee delayed his comeback.
His last appearance for India was in the ICC World Cup 2023 final, where he claimed 24 wickets at an average of 10.70, making him the tournament’s leading wicket-taker.