Sports Bulletin of November 12: Mohammed Shami All Set to Return to Ranji Cricket, ICC May Consider South Africa as New Host for Champions Trophy & More

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In today's sports bulletin (November 12), we cover exciting developments across various sports. Indian pacer Mohammed Shami gears up for his Ranji return, while a fiery pitch awaits India in Perth for the Border-Gavaskar series.

We also look at potential changes to the 2025 Champions Trophy venue, player accolades for Amelia Kerr and Noman Ali, and Deepak Chahar's hopes for the upcoming IPL mega auction. Further details below

1. Mohammed Shami Set for Ranji Return to Prove Fitness Ahead of Australia Tour

After a year sidelined by injury, Indian pacer Mohammed Shami will return to competitive cricket, playing for Bengal against Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy. Cleared by the National Cricket Academy, Shami's comeback boosts both Bengal and India as selectors monitor his readiness for the upcoming Australia series.

2. Perth Pitch Curator Warns India of Pace and Bounce in Fiery First-Test Surface

The Optus Stadium curator has cautioned the Indian team, indicating that a fast, bouncy pitch with "live grass" awaits them for the Border-Gavaskar series opener in Perth. Modelled after the renowned WACA surface, the pitch is expected to challenge batters with pace, bounce, and potential cracks as the game progresses. India last played here in 2018, where despite Virat Kohli's impressive 123, they suffered a defeat.

3. Manu Bhaker Returns to Training with Coach Jaspal Rana After 100-Day Break

Manu Bhaker has resumed training under coach Jaspal Rana after a 100-day break following the Paris Olympics. Back at a 10m air pistol range in Dehradun, Bhaker is preparing rigorously for upcoming challenges, prioritizing long-term goals like the 2026 Asian Games and the 2028 Olympics.

She skipped a recent award ceremony to focus on training. According to Rana, the focus is on consistent progress, not immediate competitions, emphasizing hard work over past achievements. Bhaker has reconnected with her passion, unfazed by past challenges and social media distractions

4. Champions Trophy 2025 May Move to South Africa if PCB Rejects Hybrid Model

The ICC may relocate the 2025 Champions Trophy to South Africa if Pakistan's PCB declines a proposed hybrid model due to India's refusal to play in Pakistan, citing security concerns. While PCB head Mohsin Naqvi insists on hosting the full event in Pakistan, the ICC considers shifting India's matches to UAE or Sri Lanka. If unresolved, Pakistan could lose hosting rights, or may withdraw altogether. Political tension has prevented India-Pakistan cricket matches on Pakistani soil since 2008.

5. Amelia Kerr and Noman Ali Named ICC Players of the Month for October 2024

New Zealand's Amelia Kerr and Pakistan's Noman Ali were named ICC Players of the Month for October 2024. Kerr excelled at the Women's T20 World Cup, scoring 160 runs and taking 19 wickets, including pivotal performances in New Zealand's maiden T20 World Cup win.

Meanwhile, Noman's 20 wickets across two Tests led Pakistan to a comeback series win against England, marking his entry into the ICC Men's Test Bowling Rankings' top ten. Both players expressed gratitude for the honor and their teams' support in achieving these milestones.

6. Deepak Chahar Hopes for IPL Return with CSK or Rajasthan Royals in 2025 Auction

Deepak Chahar is hopeful that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will buy him back at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, scheduled for November 24-25. If not, he is open to Rajasthan Royals bidding for him. Chahar, a powerplay specialist, reflected on CSK's previous willingness to go all out for him and remains confident that his skills will be valued in the current IPL environment. CSK has already retained several key players, leaving the decision open regarding using their Right to Match (RTM) card on Chahar