Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket
Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket in one of the most awaited comebacks for Indian fans. After months of speculation, the veteran fast bowler has been included in the East Zone team for the upcoming Duleep Trophy 2025. This selection comes after he missed the high-profile India vs England Test series earlier this year, raising doubts about his future in red-ball cricket.
Shami, who turns 35 next month, has been one of India’s most successful Test bowlers over the last decade. His absence from the England tour sparked debates about whether his international career was nearing an end. Now, his participation in the Duleep Trophy will serve as a critical test to prove that he still has the pace, skill, and stamina to play at the highest level.
Why This Tournament Matters for Shami
The Duleep Trophy is one of India’s oldest and most respected domestic tournaments. It brings together top players from different zones — North, South, East, West, and Central — to compete in first-class matches. This year, it carries even more weight for Shami because it will be the first competitive cricket he plays after recovering from injuries and missing out on international selection.
According to a report in The Telegraph, the BCCI selectors will closely monitor his performance in this tournament. A good showing could put him back in contention for India’s Test squad, while a poor performance might reduce his chances of making an international comeback.
Shami’s Current Situation
Sources close to Shami have confirmed that he has been training hard in his hometown Amroha. His preparations have included fitness drills, bowling practice, and match simulations to get into peak form before the tournament. Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket
BCCI insiders have hinted that Shami is almost certain to be in East Zone’s playing XI when they face North Zone in their opening match. His inclusion is expected to strengthen the bowling attack, as his experience and wicket-taking ability are unmatched in the squad. Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket
The Fitness Question
While skill and experience are on his side, the biggest question surrounding Mohammed Shami’s return to cricket is his fitness. At 35, a fast bowler’s body undergoes a lot of wear and tear. Shami has had to manage injuries carefully over the past two years, often missing series due to workload and fitness issues.
The Duleep Trophy will test whether he can bowl long spells over multiple days without breaking down. If he can show match fitness, it will significantly boost his chances of returning to the Indian Test team.
Possible Impact on India’s Test Plans
India’s Test bowling attack has been in transition recently, with younger players like Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, and Akash Deep stepping up. However, Shami’s proven record, especially in overseas conditions, means that a fit and in-form Shami could still play a big role in key series, including the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the World Test Championship cycle. Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket
Selectors have always valued Shami’s ability to deliver in crucial moments, whether it’s breaking partnerships with the old ball or swinging the new ball in challenging conditions. A strong performance in the Duleep Trophy could remind everyone of what he brings to the table.
Shami’s Career Highlights
For context, Shami has taken over 200 wickets in Test cricket with a strike rate among the best for Indian fast bowlers. He has been instrumental in famous wins abroad, including the 2021 Lord’s Test against England and the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket
His ability to reverse swing the ball and maintain speed over long spells has made him one of India’s most dependable bowlers. That is why his absence from the England series earlier this year was felt deeply by fans and experts alike. Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket
East Zone’s Chances with Shami
The East Zone team will greatly benefit from having a bowler of Shami’s caliber. Playing alongside younger bowlers, Shami’s guidance and experience could help improve the overall performance of the side. His presence alone could tilt close matches in East Zone’s favor. Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket
If East Zone can progress deep into the tournament, it will also give Shami more match practice, which is vital before any potential India recall. Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket
What’s Next After the Duleep Trophy?
If Shami performs well, the next big step would be his inclusion in India’s squad for upcoming home and away Test series. With the 2025-27 World Test Championship points at stake, India will want their best possible bowling lineup. Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket
On the flip side, if fitness issues or poor form persist, Shami might be eased into limited-overs formats instead, before attempting another Test comeback. Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket
Fan Reactions to the News
The announcement of Mohammed Shami’s return to cricket has excited fans on social media. Many have expressed hope that he can come back stronger and extend his career for a few more years. Some have pointed out that even at 35, his skill level is world-class, and with proper workload management, he can still be a match-winner for India. Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket
The Duleep Trophy 2025 will be more than just another domestic tournament for Mohammed Shami — it will be a defining chapter in his cricketing journey. His return marks a chance to prove doubters wrong, silence critics, and remind everyone why he has been one of India’s finest fast bowlers.
Whether or not he makes a full comeback to the Indian Test team will depend largely on how he performs in the coming weeks. One thing is certain: all eyes will be on Mohammed Shami’s return to cricket when East Zone takes the field. Mohammed Shami Returns to Cricket
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