Cricket

Mohammed Shami Aspires for Bengal Comeback, Eyes Border-Gavaskar Trophy TriumphThe Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) recently held its Annual Award Ceremony, honoring exceptional achievements in cricket. Among the celebrated individuals was India's star fast bowler, Mohammed Shami, who received a special award for his outstanding performance during the Cricket World Cup 2023.During his acceptance speech, Shami expressed his desire to return to the Bengal team. The fast bowler, who has been sidelined from international cricket, aims to regain his place in the national squad by showcasing his skills in domestic tournaments."I definitely want to play for Bengal next season. I am looking forward to playing two to three matches for Bengal in Ranji. It will help me to make a comeback in international cricket. I have been training at the NCA and I want to play as and when I am 100 percent fit," Shami said, as quoted by IANS.Shami, who hails from Uttar Pradesh, was discovered while playing first-class cricket for Bengal. After debuting in 2011, he played 15 first-class and 15 List A matches before being selected for India's ODI squad to face Pakistan in Delhi in January 2013.Expressing his gratitude towards Bengal, Shami said, "I can't thank Bengal enough. I was born in a family in UP where there was no opportunity. So I often say I was born in UP but made in Bengal. This is a journey of 22 years and I am so grateful to Bengal for making me what I am. The love and warmth Bengal has shown will never be forgotten."Shami also shared his thoughts on the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, set to begin in December. He believes that India are the favorites to defeat Australia in the five-match Test series later this year."I think India are favorites to win the series. In the last series in Australia, we played with a young team with a lot of senior players missing. But we proved we were the best. So I feel the next series will be competitive one and India will be victorious," Shami added.

India's Test squad for the upcoming series against Bangladesh has been announced, featuring the return of several key players. However, the absence of Mohammed Shami and Shreyas Iyer has raised questions.Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant are among the top stars who will be making their return to the Test team. Rookie pacer Yash Dayal has also earned his maiden call-up.Mohammed Shami, who was expected to be fit for the first Test, has been left out of the squad. The veteran pacer's fitness remains a concern, and he is unlikely to be selected for the second Test as well.Shreyas Iyer, despite his impressive performance in the first Duleep Trophy match, has also been overlooked by the selectors. Iyer's inconsistent performances in red-ball cricket and a poor 2024 season have reportedly played a role in his omission.Fitness concerns have also troubled Iyer recently. His removal from BCCI's central contracts, following his unavailability for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy, has reportedly left the board's bosses and the selection committee unhappy.With Sarfaraz Khan and KL Rahul also competing for the middle-order spots, Iyer seems to be low in the pecking order at the moment.The BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar had earlier said that Shami could make his return for the Bangladesh series. However, the pacer doesn't seem to have ticked all the boxes for selection. He is likely to be picked in the Bengal team for the Ranji Trophy campaign, starting on October 11. If he manages to prove his fitness in the domestic tournament, Team India's return could only be a formality.

Akash Deep, a rising star in Indian cricket, has drawn comparisons to the legendary Mohammed Shami due to his uncanny bowling style. With Shami sidelined by an ankle injury, Deep made his Test debut against England in February and has since impressed selectors with his ability to swing the ball both ways.Deep's bowling action, seam position, and compact follow-through mirror Shami's, leading to speculation that he has received guidance from his Bengal teammate. Deep confirmed these rumors, revealing that Shami has shared valuable insights on how to move the ball effectively.In the recent Duleep Trophy opener, Deep showcased his skills by dismissing Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy with first-rate deliveries that disturbed their off-stumps. His match haul of nine wickets (four for 60 and five for 56) highlighted his ability to trouble left-handed batters.Deep's success is particularly impressive considering he had only played one competitive match since his Test debut. He credits his performance to the practice games he played at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), where he approached each game with the intensity of a real match.Despite his recent achievements, Deep remains grounded and focused on the process of bowling. He believes that getting wickets is a byproduct of executing his plans effectively. He also emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement, recognizing that there is always room for growth.Deep's emergence as a potential successor to Shami is a testament to his talent and dedication. As he continues to gain experience and refine his skills, he has the potential to become a key figure in India's bowling attack for years to come.

Mohammed Shami, India's pace spearhead, has revealed his admiration for two legendary bowlers: Waqar Younis and Dale Steyn. In a recent interview with Star Sports, Shami named these two greats as his "favourite bowlers of all-time."Shami's admiration for Younis and Steyn stems from their exceptional skills and achievements. Younis, a Pakistani fast bowler, was renowned for his devastating swing bowling and ability to generate reverse swing. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time, having taken 373 Test wickets and 416 ODI wickets.Steyn, a South African fast bowler, is another legend of the game. Known for his express pace, pinpoint accuracy, and lethal inswingers, Steyn has taken 439 Test wickets and 196 ODI wickets. He is considered one of the most successful fast bowlers in the history of cricket.Shami's own bowling prowess has earned him a place among India's top bowlers. Since his debut in 2013, he has established himself as a match-winner across all three formats. With 448 international wickets in 188 games, Shami is one of the most prolific pacers of the modern era.His ability to deliver match-winning performances in big games has made him a fan favorite. In the 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cups, Shami played a crucial role in India's campaigns, taking key wickets and helping his team reach the semi-finals.Shami's partnership with Jasprit Bumrah has formed a formidable pace duo for India. Together, they have led India's bowling attack to numerous victories. Shami's experience and skill, combined with Bumrah's pace and variations, make them one of the most dangerous bowling pairs in world cricket.

Virat Kohli, the former Indian cricket team captain, is renowned for his jovial nature and penchant for pranks. It was Kohli who bestowed the nickname "lala" upon fast bowler Mohammed Shami. Shami, who recently turned 34, is currently undergoing rehabilitation following ankle surgery and is nearing a return to international cricket.On Shami's birthday, Star Sports released a video clip featuring the Uttar Pradesh-born pacer answering questions in a rapid-fire round. When asked about the origin of his nickname, Shami revealed, "Virat started it because almost everybody in the team had a nickname, only I was left."Shami's jersey number, 11, holds special significance for him. "There are a lot of things that when calculated are 11 in my life," he explained.Regarding his favorite fast bowlers, Shami named Waqar Younis and Dale Steyn. "There are a lot of them," he said, "but if you are asking for names, then I like Waqar Younis and Dale Steyn more."When asked about batsmen he enjoys bowling to, Shami singled out Joe Root. "If you talk about now, then for me it is Joe Root because he plays all around the wicket," he said.Shami's most memorable career moment came when he joined the ODI team. "There was a tradition then to stand on a chair or a stool and give a speech," he recalled. "When I stood up and started seeing the faces, then I was left speechless. When I stepped into a meeting that had the top batsmen and the top bowlers, I just couldn't comprehend (what to say). But even today I haven't forgotten that meeting."

Mohammed Shami, the Indian pace spearhead, celebrated his 34th birthday on Tuesday. Known for his match-winning performances across formats, Shami has established himself as a crucial cog in the Indian team, particularly in ODI World Cups.Despite battling injuries throughout his career, Shami has amassed an impressive tally of 448 international wickets in 188 matches. His raw pace, precise yorkers, and ability to deliver under pressure have earned him a reputation as one of the most formidable bowlers in modern cricket.Shami's international debut in 2013 was a memorable one, as he claimed nine wickets in a single match at Eden Gardens. Since then, he has consistently showcased his skills, forming a potent pace attack alongside Jasprit Bumrah that has challenged batsmen worldwide.In Test cricket, Shami has taken 229 wickets, including a five-wicket haul on his debut. He is only the third Indian pacer to achieve this feat. In ODIs, he has claimed 195 wickets, making him India's leading wicket-taker in the format.Shami's contributions to India's World Cup campaigns have been remarkable. Despite not always being the first-choice bowler, he has taken 55 wickets in 18 matches, making him the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the tournament's history.In the 2019 World Cup, Shami became only the second Indian bowler to claim a hat-trick. In the 2023 World Cup, he set a new record by reaching 50 wickets in just 17 innings. His 7/57 spell against New Zealand in the semifinals remains the best by an Indian bowler in both World Cup history and ODIs.Shami also holds the record for the most five-wicket hauls in World Cups, with four to his name. He finished the 2023 World Cup as the highest wicket-taker, claiming 24 wickets in seven matches.In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Shami has played for several teams, including Kolkata Knight Riders, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, and Gujarat Titans. He has taken 127 wickets in 110 matches, showcasing his prowess in the T20 format.In the 2023 IPL season, Shami won the Purple Cap for taking the most wickets—28 in 17 matches. He was also instrumental in Gujarat Titans' IPL title win in 2022.As Shami turns 34, his achievements and records continue to inspire both fans and aspiring cricketers. He remains one of India's greatest pace bowlers, whose contributions to the team have been invaluable.

Mohammed Shami, one of India's premier fast bowlers, has consistently proven his worth across all formats. Despite initial setbacks, Shami has emerged as an indispensable asset, particularly in Test and ODI cricket.In the 2023 ODI World Cup, Shami's absence from the starting lineup raised concerns. However, upon his inclusion following Hardik Pandya's injury, he unleashed a devastating performance, becoming the tournament's leading wicket-taker.Reflecting on his remarkable comeback, Shami humorously remarked at the CEAT Cricket Awards, "I'm habitual to it, I think." He recalled similar situations in 2015, 2019, and 2023, where he seized opportunities after being initially sidelined."When I was given a chance, the performances, thanks to god, they never thought of dropping me again," Shami said. "You can call it hard work, but I'm always ready for a chance. Only when you're ready can you prove yourself."Shami's unwavering determination and hunger for success were evident in his comments. Despite facing setbacks, he remains focused on seizing every opportunity.India coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma couldn't help but laugh at Shami's playful jab at them. Their reactions spoke volumes about the respect and admiration they hold for the fast bowler.Shami has been sidelined since the World Cup due to injury but is expected to return for India's Test series against Bangladesh starting on September 19. His presence will undoubtedly bolster India's bowling attack and enhance their chances of success.

Mohammed Shami's participation in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia remains uncertain, pending a final fitness assessment from the National Cricket Academy (NCA). The Indian pacer has been recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the ODI World Cup last November and is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the NCA in Bengaluru.Shami's recovery has progressed well, with the pacer resuming bowling last month. He has gradually increased his workload and has reported no pain, indicating a potential return to competitive cricket. However, the BCCI secretary, Jay Shah, has emphasized that Shami's participation in the Australia series will be contingent on his fitness, as determined by the NCA report.Shami's importance to the Indian team, particularly in Australian conditions, cannot be overstated. In eight Tests down under, he has claimed 31 wickets at an average of 32.16, including two five-wicket hauls. His ability to exploit the Australian pitches makes him a crucial asset for India's hopes of reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on foreign soil.In addition to Shami's fitness update, Shah also confirmed that VVS Laxman will continue as the head of the NCA. Laxman, who took over the role in December 2021, has played a significant role in overseeing the rehabilitation of players like Shami. His current contract expires in September, but he will remain in charge, ensuring continuity at the academy during this crucial period.

Mohammed Shami, India's premier fast bowler, is poised to make a much-anticipated return to competitive cricket after undergoing ankle surgery earlier this year. The experienced pacer is expected to represent his state team, Bengal, in the upcoming Ranji Trophy matches, marking a significant step in his rehabilitation journey.According to sources, Shami is likely to feature in at least one of Bengal's initial Ranji fixtures, either against Uttar Pradesh on October 11 in an away game or versus Bihar in Kolkata on October 18. However, considering the short two-day gap between the matches, it is improbable that he will participate in both encounters.Shami's return to domestic cricket could potentially pave the way for his international comeback, with a possible appearance in one of the Test matches against New Zealand later this year. The Test series against New Zealand kicks off on October 19 in Bengaluru, with additional matches scheduled in Pune on October 24 and Mumbai on November 1. Shami is anticipated to participate in one of these games before heading to Australia for the major tour.The 34-year-old speedster last represented India in the ODI World Cup final against Australia in Ahmedabad on November 19, 2022. Since then, Shami has not played any competitive matches due to undergoing ankle surgery in the United Kingdom in February of this year, which ruled him out for at least six months.Although there were reports suggesting Shami might be available for the Duleep Trophy, it has been determined that he is unlikely to be fit for the tournament. The selectors are cautious about rushing his return prematurely, prioritizing his long-term fitness for the upcoming Test series in Australia.Shami, one of India's leading pace bowlers, has taken 229 wickets in 64 Tests, including six five-wicket hauls and 12 four-wicket hauls. His return to the national team will be a major boost for India's bowling attack, which has been missing his experience and skill.