Big update on Mohammed Shami's India comeback and recovery amidst T20 World Cup 2024

There's positive news for Indian cricket fans as superstar pacer Mohammed Shami has begun bowling again at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) according to reports from News 18. 

When will Mohammed Shami return to Team India? 

While there's no official word yet on his exact comeback date, Shami appears to be on the right track to returning to the Indian team soon. Shami battled discomfort in his ankle throughout the 2023 World Cup, playing through the pain with the help of injections. Following the tournament, he underwent surgery on his Achilles tendon in February. Currently, he's undergoing rehabilitation at the NCA under the watchful eye of Dr. Nitin Patel, Head of Sports Science and Medicine and Strength & Conditioning coach Rajinikanth. Reports indicate Shami's recovery is progressing well. He's not experiencing any discomfort while bowling, though he's not yet bowling with a full run-up.  He's reportedly returned home for a short break but is expected to be back at the NCA soon to continue his rehab.

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According to a report from News18, Mohammed Shami's childhood coach, Badruddin, revealed some positive news. He said that Shami has begun bowling again and is making good progress towards returning to the Indian team.

"Shami has started bowling. Not with full run-up or full tilt but has started releasing the ball without any discomfort  in the nets. This is a good sign because bowling activity has begun," Badruddin said.

 

Since Shami's been out of competitive cricket for six months, the National Cricket Academy (NCA) might prioritize his return in shorter formats like T20Is or ODIs first. This is a common strategy for players recovering from long injuries, allowing them to ease back into the game gradually.

 

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It's unclear if Shami will be ready for the limited-overs tours of Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka in July. However, the three T20Is against Bangladesh in October could be a more realistic target for his comeback. The NCA is taking a cautious approach to avoid jeopardizing Shami's fitness, especially considering the crucial five-Test series against Australia later this year. Team India's busy schedule continues after the T20 World Cup They'll head straight to Zimbabwe for a five-match T20I series kicking off on July 6. The teams will battle it out at Harare Sports Club in Harare for the following four matches as well, on July 7th, 10th, 13th, and 14th.

 

India vs Zimbabwe's series schedule

July 6: ZIM vs IND 1st T20I at Harare Sports Club; Time: 4:30 PM IST onwards

July 7: ZIM vs IND 2nd T20I at Harare Sports Club; Time: 4:30 PM IST onwards

July 10: ZIM vs IND 3rd T20I at Harare Sports Club; Time: 9:30 PM IST onwards

July 13: ZIM vs IND 4th T20I at Harare Sports Club; Time: 4:30 PM IST onwards

July 14: ZIM vs IND 5th T20I at Harare Sports Club; Time: 4:30 PM IST onwards

 

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