Mohammed Shami, the Indian fast bowler, has come a long way in his recuperation from an ankle injury that has kept him out of the game since the ODI World Cup in November. It is hoped that he will be fit to play when India kicks off its home season in September with a Test series against Bangladesh.

The selectors have been informed of Shami’s progress and will shortly decide whether or not they want him to participate in at least one of the Duleep Trophy matches, which kick off in Anantapur on September 5 to demonstrate his fitness.

Shami is presently nearing the end of his rehabilitation at Bengaluru’s National Cricket Academy. He started bowling again last month for the first time since his operation, and it’s believed that once he was pain-free, he gradually increased his bowling effort.

Before India departed for the tour of Sri Lanka in July, chief selector Ajit Agarkar had confirmed Shami had “started to bowl” and the first Test against Bangladesh starting on September 19 in Chennai “was always the goal” for his comeback.

“We more or less know who the guys are, there are some injuries at the moment and hope they will be back up,” Agarkar had said. “Shami has started to bowl which is a good sign. September 19 is the first Test and that was always the goal. I don’t know if that is his timeline for recovery, will have to ask the guys at the NCA about that.

India has a total of 5 home tests this season, which includes 2 against Bangladesh followed by 3 games against New Zealand. The more important and much anticipated Border-Gavaskar trophy will kick off in November and if not for the home leg, Shami’s availability for the big Australia tour is almost certain.

The BCCI decided to divide  Ranji Trophy, India’s first-class championship into two halves to prevent matches from being impacted by weather delays, particularly during the winter months in north India. As a result, the Ranji Trophy will start in October. In addition, starting on October 31, India’s A team will play two first-class matches in Australia, providing Shami with ample of chances should he require them.

Shami has always been a key bowler to India’s test side besides Bumrah and Siraj. His presence will boost the confidence of an already lethal Indian bowling lineup. India would want to start the home season with wins under their belt, and will then move to Australia to defend the Border Gavaskar Trophy.