Sreesanth last played competitively in 2013. © Getty

World Cup winner S. Sreesanth could make a dramatic return to Ranji Trophy cricket for Kerala in the upcoming Ranji Trophy season, if he can prove his fitness. Having initially been handed a lifetime ban for his alleged involvement in the IPL spot-fixing scandal, Sreesanth's punishment was later trimmed to a seven-year exile, one that ends in September this year.

Once Sreesanth's ban ends officially, the 37-year-old could be summoned to the probables camp where he will have to primarily pass a fitness test. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there is no clarity on when the domestic season in India will start. However, the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) have decided to name a list of probables in advance with an eye on ensuring that the pre-season preparations go according to plan.

In a conversation with Asianet News, the KCA expressed their delight on the possibility of a return for Sreesanth. The fast bowler, who last played a First-class game in the Irani Cup game of 2013, could lead Kerala's bowling attack following the exit of Sandeep Warrier who recently shifted base to Tamil Nadu.