Shami, Saha and Umesh Yadav could play in Ranji Trophy knockouts

Shami, Saha and Umesh Yadav could play in Ranji Trophy knockouts

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BCCI

BCCI have been approached by state boards to see if Mohammed Shami, Wriddhiman Saha, and Umesh Yadav could be added to their teams for the Ranji Trophy semi-finals that are scheduled to start on December 17. The trio have been included in the squad that will travel to South Africa later this month.

With the Ranji Trophy coming to a climax and no clear favorite in sight, all teams are looking to get their best possible combination for the semis. Shami, who claimed 18 wickets in just three games, and Saha, who has 230 runs to his name, could be great additions to the Bengal against side when they take on Delhi in Pune. In the other semi-final,  where Vidarbha take on Karnataka in Kolkata, the former could field Umesh in the playing XI to boost their chances of making it to the final for the first time in their history.

The aforementioned players have not been in contention for the limited-overs’ Indian team which makes their selection an easier choice. However, that is not a luxury that Karnataka State Cricket Association have at their disposal. With KL Rahul and Manish Pandey very much in the reckoning for the limited overs’ team, it is highly unlikely that they would turn up for the eight-time Champions. While reports had emerged that KSCA had approached the board to see if the players could be released for the semis, an official categorically denied the claims. 

"Rahul and Manish Pandey are part of the India squad playing against Sri Lanka and haven't been released for the semi-finals," an official told ESPN.

Another name, however, who could make an appearance in the Ranji Trophy is Ishant Sharma. The Indian pacer, who took over the role of Delhi captain earlier this year, averages an incredible 12.80 with 20 wickets in just four matches. However, an ankle injury appears to have sidelined him for the semis. With the all-important tour of South Africa on the horizon, Delhi’s have sought clearance from Ravi Shastri before including the pacer in the side.

"He had a bit of a problem with the ankle, so that's why we need a clearance from [India coach] Ravi Shastri and the board. We are in touch with the team management. He wants to play, I think, but by tomorrow it will be more clear. As yet, we are waiting for the all-clear from the team management," Delhi's chairman of selectors Atul Wassan revealed.

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