Soon after starring with a five-wicket haul in Bengal’s 141-run win over Gujarat in a Group C Ranji Trophy match at the Eden Gardens, Mohammed Shami posted a picture of himself on social media. ‘Grateful for the rhythm and hard work paying off’, the post read. His second innings bowling figures were seen on the ball in Shami’s hand.

Rhythm has been the key to the veteran fast bowler’s effectiveness throughout his international career spanning more than a decade. Now that he has regained it, his childhood coach, Moradabad-based Mohammed Badruddin, believes the Shami of old is more or less back.

“His rhythm has returned and that happens when he is 100 percent match-fit. Rhythm is what matters when it comes to Shami. Once he gets his rhythm, he’s a different bowler. What I saw today was the

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