November 15, 2024: Mohammad Shami’s stunning performance in his return to competitive cricket after a year-long absence has earned him widespread praise, especially from Bengal coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla. The seasoned fast bowler made his much-awaited comeback in the Ranji Trophy against Madhya Pradesh, and his display was nothing short of sensational.
Shami had been sidelined due to an ankle injury and missed out on the selection for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. However, his strong showing in his first competitive match since last year’s ODI World Cup has reignited hopes for his future involvement in India’s key Test series and other international assignments. Shami’s performance in the Ranji Trophy has been a crucial step towards his return to form.
In his first innings back, Shami bowled 19 overs, picking up 4 wickets for 54 runs, and played a major role in putting Bengal in a dominant position at Holkar Stadium. His effort was especially remarkable given the long break he had, which left many wondering if he could regain his old rhythm. His performance impressed Laxmi Ratan Shukla, who marveled at Shami’s ability to bowl long spells and take wickets despite a long absence from the game.
“What’s there to say?” Laxmi Ratan Shukla remarked. “He came into the match without doing any match simulation. Can you imagine? But obviously, if he plays more, he will get better.” Shukla was particularly impressed by the way Shami built his spells. Initially, Shami was economical, bowling 10 overs for just 34 runs, but as the match progressed, his confidence grew. He bowled two separate spells of four and six overs, the latter of which produced a remarkable 18 runs for the opposition, before striking again in the middle and lower order to dismantle Madhya Pradesh’s batting line-up.
Shami’s best moments came in the second half, where he removed crucial wickets, including that of MP captain Shubham Sharma, and cleared out the tail with precision. His spell of fast bowling left Shukla in awe: “He bowled the sort of spells fast bowlers are expected to,” Shukla said. “I have never seen a fast bowler come back so strongly after a year away. What he did today is like a fairy tale.”
Shami’s performance is being seen as a clear indicator that, despite missing out on the BGT squad, he could soon be back in contention for future international series. As Shukla rightly noted, the more Shami plays, the sharper and more dangerous he will become. His return to top form could be crucial for India’s fast-bowling department in the months ahead, and he has certainly made a strong case for his inclusion in future international cricket.
