Want to play two Ranji matches before I go to Australia: Mohammed Shami

India fast bowler Mohammed Shami has declared himself 100 percent pain-free in the middle of all the speculations about his fitness for the upcoming Test series against Australia. Shami's last appearance for India was in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia on November 19, where he played through an ankle injury. 

The speedster had an exceptional performance in the tournament, claiming 24 wickets in seven matches at an impressive average of 10.70. However, the injury subsequently sidelined him, leading to surgery in London in February, and a prolonged rehabilitation period at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

The veteran pacer's fitness became a topic of discussion after Indian captain Rohit Sharma revealed that Shami had experienced swelling in his knees, potentially affecting his recovery. This raised concerns about Shami's availability for the crucial five-Test series in Australia, set to begin on November 22 in Perth. However, Shami has now sent a powerful message about his return.

"I am very happy with how I bowled yesterday. I was bowling from half run-up before that because I didn't want to take too much load. But yesterday, I decided to go full tilt, and I bowled at 100 percent," the 34-year-old told reporters on the sidelines of an event by Eugenix Hair Sciences as quoted by NDTV Sports.

Also Read: Watch: Mohammed Shami bowls in nets after Bengaluru Test

Meanwhile, the Amroha-born was also seen bowling for over an hour on one of the main pitches at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium following the conclusion of the first Test between India and New Zealand in Bengaluru. The veteran also expressed his wish to play some Ranji Trophy matches with his home team Bengal ahead of the highly anticipated tour.

"The result was good. I am 100 percent pain-free. Everyone has been wondering for a long time about whether I will make it for the Australia series but it is still some time away. The only thing on my mind is to ensure that I am fit and how strong I can be for the Australia series. I can see what kind of attack we need in Australia. I have to spend more time on the ground. I want to play a couple of (Ranji) matches before I go," the senior pacer added.