Indian pacer Mohammed Shami is gearing up for a return in the final two Tests of the ongoing series against Australia. His playing gear has already been sent to Australia, and fitness clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) is anticipated to be a mere formality. (More Cricket News)

According to a PTI report, while Shami’s participation in the Brisbane Test starting December 14 remains uncertain, his appearance in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne (December 26) is all but confirmed.

A source close to the cricketer said that the NCA "fitness certificate" will come very soon.

"Shami's India kit has already been dispatched to Australia. He will complete Mushtaq Ali Trophy T20 assignment and then leave," the source told PTI.

The 34-year-old last played for India in the ODI World Cup final in November 2023 but was sidelined following ankle surgery. His much-awaited return against New Zealand was further delayed due to knee swelling.

Currently participating in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), Shami is expected to be assessed by the NCA medical team, headed by Dr. Nitin Patel and Strength and Conditioning trainer Nishant Bordoloi, once Bengal completes their campaign in Bengaluru.

“Shami will play the pre-quarterfinal for us against Chandigarh and join us in Bengaluru tomorrow,” Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla said. “However, I am not sure if he will stay on for the quarters or beyond. He looks fit and should be ready for the last two Australia Tests.”

Shukla praised Shami’s decision to play in the SMAT following his workload of 43 overs in a Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh.

“He’s shed around six kilograms and has already played seven T20 games in 13 days. Playing the pre-quarters will make it eight in 16 days. Shami wanted to test himself in domestic cricket to inform the NCA about his body’s reaction,” Shukla added.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri also emphasized the need for Shami to return as soon as possible, particularly for the Brisbane Test.

India won the first Test in Perth, while the second match, a day-night encounter in Adelaide, is underway. However, by the looks of it, Australia seem to be dominating the second Test.