“Want to ensure there is no discomfort when I return” – Mohammed Shami aims to make comeback only after regaining full fitness

India’s gun fast bowler Mohammed Shami wants to make a comeback only after regaining full fitness. Shami wants to ensure there is no discomfort when he makes his return to the top level. The right-arm pacer hasn’t played any professional cricket since then he had to undergo surgery for his ankle injury, which he suffered during the ODI World Cup 2023.

Shami had a great run in the ODI World Cup 2023, picking 24 wickets (the highest in the tournament) in seven matches at an impressive average of 10.71. The fast bowler returned with fine figures of 7-57 against New Zealand in the semifinals and bagged a total of three five-wicket hauls.

Meanwhile, Shami is well known for his upright seam position and can consistently bowl above 140 kmph and thus it is not easy to face him.

Shami has not been picked by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel for the first Test against Bangladesh as he is yet to achieve 100% fitness.

Shami said on CAB awards, “I am working hard to make a comeback soon because I know I have been out of action for quite some time. However, I want to ensure there is no discomfort when I return.

“I’ve to work on my fitness, so that there is no discomfort. The stronger I return, the better it is for me. I don’t want to rush and risk getting injured again, be it against Bangladesh, New Zealand or the Australia series.”

Shami is also open to playing in the domestic circuit to test his physical fitness before playing at the top level.

“I’ve already started bowling, but I won’t take any chances until I am 100% fit. If I need to play domestic cricket to test my fitness, I will. What matters most is that I am fully ready for whatever comes next, regardless of the opposition or format.”

There is no doubt that Shami will be vital in the upcoming tour of Australia as he has all the experience.