Mohammed Shami Misses Out on Bengal’s Opening Match in Vijay Hazare Trophy

Mohammed Shami, right-arm pacer of Bengal, will not be featured in the playing XI on Saturday, December 21, during the Vijay Hazare tournament. The right-arm bowler played following a long injury break through a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and a Ranji match for Bengal.

Shami was due to return late to the India team for the remaining matches of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, if he had got himself fit. But Team India captain Rohit Sharma has expressed some unease about the lack of update on his recovery from the NCA. His no show in the opener of Vijay Hazare has caused more concern.

"Bengal pacer Shami to be rested for Vijay Hazare Trophy opening match. India and Bengal veteran pacer Mohammed Shami will be rested for the Vijay Hazare Trophy opening match, it was announced on Thursday," confirmed by the Cricket Association of Bengal in a statement on Thursday via their Instagram.

Shami's inclusion in Bengal's squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy had kindled hopes about his inclusion in India's Australia tour. He was in good rhythm during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, taking 11 wickets in nine matches with an economy rate of 7.85. Reports also say he suffered from knee swelling, which Sharma spoke about, advising the management to not rush Shami back too soon.

"I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens," Rohit Sharma said during a press conference in the Border-Gavaskar series (via ESPNcricinfo).

Bengal play Tripura on Thursday, December 26, which is the same day India's fourth Test against Australia starts in Melbourne.

Shami looks ahead to making it to the 2025 Champions Trophy. Chances of him getting picked for the remaining two Tests in Australia are bleak, as India has a pretty good pace attack. With the Vijay Hazare Trophy in sight, Shami's eyes will be on regaining form for future opportunities. India also has a white-ball series against England in January, which could be a realistic return for Shami if his Vijay Hazare campaign goes well.