Mohammed Shami to Bolster East Zone Squad for Upcoming Duleep Trophy

Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami is all set to bring his experience and firepower to the East Zone squad for the upcoming Duleep Trophy, adding a significant boost to their bowling attack. The tournament, a prestigious fixture in India’s domestic cricket calendar, will feature top players from across zones competing in a format that often serves as a stepping stone for national selection.

Shami’s inclusion is a major talking point, as the 33‑year‑old fast bowler has been on the sidelines since the 2023 ICC World Cup, where he emerged as India’s leading wicket‑taker and a standout performer. His return to domestic cricket is seen as a strategic move to regain match fitness and rhythm ahead of a busy international calendar.

East Zone will be heavily reliant on Shami’s presence, both as a spearhead of the attack and as a mentor to the younger pacers in the squad. His ability to extract movement with the new ball and deliver lethal spells in the middle overs could prove decisive in their campaign. Alongside Shami, East Zone features a mix of emerging domestic talent and seasoned performers, making them a competitive side in this year’s tournament.

The Duleep Trophy, known for its inter-zonal rivalries, has historically been a platform where domestic stalwarts rub shoulders with international stars, producing high-quality contests. For the BCCI selectors, performances in the competition often serve as a yardstick for red-ball form, keeping the door open for Test and India A opportunities.

With Shami in the lineup, East Zone will enter the tournament with renewed confidence, aiming to make a deep run and perhaps lift the trophy. Fans and selectors alike will keep a close watch on the experienced pacer, whose return to competitive cricket could be pivotal for both his domestic team and the Indian setup in the months ahead.