Shami Aims for Test Return Amid Personal Struggles

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami is gearing up for a comeback to international cricket after recovering from an Achilles tendon injury, aiming to return for the Test series against Bangladesh starting September 19. Shami, who was the leading wicket-taker in the 2023 ODI World Cup with 24 wickets, faced significant personal challenges in 2018 due to domestic violence and match-fixing allegations by his estranged wife, Hasin Jahan, but was later cleared. His friend Umesh Kumar revealed that these allegations led Shami to contemplate suicide, demonstrating the immense pressure he faced. Despite these challenges, Shami remains one of the finest fast bowlers of the modern era, with 448 wickets in 188 international matches. BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar has confirmed Shami has resumed bowling in the nets at the National Cricket Academy, and his return is seen as crucial for India's upcoming Test series against Bangladesh and future matches against New Zealand and Australia.