India’s star pacer Mohammad Shami has been out of competitive action since the ODI World Cup final in November last year.

Shami underwent an operation on his Achilles tendon earlier this year. As a result, he missed the home Test series against England, followed by the IPL and the T20 World Cup.

Though Shami has recovered from the ankle injury, he is yet to return to competitive action. On Saturday (September 14), the fast bowler himself confirmed plans to represent Bengal in the upcoming Ranji Trophy season.

The 34-year-old aims to regain his place in the national squad by showcasing his skills in domestic tournaments.

"I definitely want to play for Bengal next season. I am looking forward to play two to three matches for Bengal in Ranji. It will help me to make a comeback in international cricket. I have been training at the NCA and I want to play as and when I am a 100 percent fit," Shami said, as quoted by IANS, while speaking at Cricket Association of Bengal’s Annual Award Ceremony.

Although Shami comes from Uttar Pradesh, he rose to fame while playing first-class cricket for Bengal. He was felicitated by the CAB for his outstanding performance in the Cricket World Cup 2023.

"I can't thank Bengal enough. I was born in a family in UP where there was no opportunity. So I often say I was born in UP but made in Bengal. This is a journey of 22 years and I am so grateful to Bengal for making me what I am. The love and warmth Bengal has shown will never be forgotten. I want Women's cricket to come up in a big way. People should not discriminate and I would be very happy to see our families backing them."

India will travel to Australia for five Test matches later this year. The eagerly-awaited series is slated to get underway on November 22 in Perth.

Shami tipped India as favorites to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under for the third straight time.

"I think India are favourites to win the series. In the last series in Australia, we played with a young team with a lot of senior players missing. But we proved we were the best. So I feel the next series will be competitive one and India will be victorious," he remarked.