Mohammed Shami named in Bengal squad for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

Mohammed Shami has been picked in Bengal's 19-player squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, the domestic T20 tournament that starts on 14 November. The announcement was made on Friday, 6 November.

Shami is currently out of favour with the national team. His selection for Bengal means he will play domestic cricket as he seeks a route back into the side. Ishant Sharma, another experienced India fast bowler, has been named in Delhi's squad for the same competition.

The two selections bring fast bowlers with long international careers back into state cricket. Both are expected to use the tournament to build match fitness and form. The role either player will take in his team has not been stated.

Domestic T20 tournaments such as the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy are a regular route for senior players who are not in the national side. Performances in them are often watched by selectors.

Bengal and Delhi are both major domestic teams.

What is not yet known is whether Shami and Ishant will play every match, and how long their stints with their teams will last.