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Mohammed Shami Returns to Domestic Fold, Likely to Feature in Duleep Trophy for East Zone
Shami’s Comeback Boosts Bengal Ahead of 2025–26 Domestic Season
In a major boost for Bengal cricket and a potential turning point for his international career, veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has been named in Bengal’s expanded 50-member squad for the upcoming domestic season. With eyes set on a return to competitive cricket, the seasoned campaigner is also in contention to represent East Zone in the Duleep Trophy, slated to begin in August.
The news of Shami’s inclusion comes as a ray of hope for Indian fans, especially after a difficult phase that saw him miss out on national selection due to form and fitness issues. As per a report by ESPNCricinfo, Shami’s name is under serious consideration for East Zone’s Duleep Trophy campaign, possibly marking his formal return to red-ball cricket.
Struggles in IPL 2025 and Omission from England Test Series
Form and Fitness: A Dip in Confidence
Shami’s recent performances have been underwhelming, particularly in the IPL 2025, where he represented Sunrisers Hyderabad. Despite being one of India’s premier pacers, Shami struggled with both rhythm and accuracy, contributing to Hyderabad’s disappointing season.
Moreover, his ongoing fitness concerns kept him out of India’s plans for the crucial Test series against England. The selectors opted for in-form and fully-fit seamers, sidelining the 34-year-old for the red-ball leg.
However, Bengal selectors have shown faith in Shami’s recovery and experience, granting him a spot in the team’s preliminary list for the 2025–26 domestic season. This opens up the possibility for him to regain match fitness and rhythm through the Duleep Trophy platform.
📌 Related Article: Bengal’s Domestic Cricket Revival – A Focus on Youth and Experience
Bengal’s Squad Loaded with Familiar Names
The Bengal contingent for the upcoming season also includes several known players from domestic and IPL circuits. Abhimanyu Easwaran, a consistent performer in first-class cricket and a Test squad regular, will lead the batting charge. He will be supported by the likes of:
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Akash Deep
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Mukesh Kumar
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Shahbaz Ahmed
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Abishek Porel
While Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar have been instrumental in India A and IPL performances, all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed and young keeper-batter Porel add balance to the squad.
Shami’s presence, if finalized, will not only bolster Bengal’s pace attack but also add valuable experience to the side aiming for domestic silverware.
Mohammed Shami’s Domestic and International Legacy
Proven Match-Winner with Vast Experience
Having played 64 Tests, 108 ODIs, and 25 T20Is for India, Mohammed Shami is among the most impactful fast bowlers India has produced in the modern era. Known for his seam position, reverse swing, and aggressive spells, Shami has been pivotal in India’s overseas wins in Australia, England, and South Africa.
In domestic cricket, representing Bengal, Shami has been equally prolific. His record includes:
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89 First-Class matches – 339 wickets
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142 List A matches – 268 wickets
His wealth of experience will be crucial for Bengal as they compete in the Duleep Trophy, Ranji Trophy, and other domestic formats.
According to a detailed report on ESPNCricinfo, Shami’s inclusion in East Zone’s Duleep Trophy squad is expected to be confirmed in the next few days, with selectors keen on assessing his match fitness ahead of a busy domestic calendar.
High-Stakes Duleep Trophy Clash Set for August 28
The East Zone side, likely featuring Shami, will begin their Duleep Trophy 2025 campaign with a quarterfinal against North Zone on August 28. This high-stakes encounter could serve as the perfect setting for Shami to announce his comeback.
If he performs well, it may lead to further opportunities in the India A setup or even a surprise return to the national squad, especially with India’s Test fixtures lined up towards the end of the year.
Mohammed Shami’s potential return to domestic cricket adds an exciting layer to Bengal’s campaign. With a proven track record and a point to prove, the 34-year-old pacer will look to silence critics and reignite his international career through performance in red-ball cricket.
Whether he plays all matches or is used selectively, his presence is bound to inspire young Bengal players and elevate the team’s overall performance. All eyes will now be on the upcoming Duleep Trophy 2025 quarterfinal on August 28, where Shami could make a resounding return.
