Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has supported Mohammed Shami’s comeback to the national team, claiming that there is no reason why the Bengal pacer should not be considered for selection.
Sourav Ganguly lauded Shami’s current form, stating that the veteran seamer is fit and doing admirably in domestic cricket.
Shami, who last represented India in the Champions Trophy 2025, has been absent from the national team in all formats since then. Despite impressive performances in the Ranji Trophy, the 35-year-old was not selected for the next Test series against South Africa, which begins on Friday at the Eden Gardens.
After being passed over for the West Indies Tests, Shami publicly said that he was totally healthy and ready to play. So far in the 2017 Ranji season, he has taken 15 wickets in Bengal’s first two matches, contributing significantly to their straight victories before going wicketless against Tripura. In three matches, he has bowled 91 overs, demonstrating endurance.
“Shami is bowling exceptionally well. He is fit and we saw in the three Ranji Trophy matches, where he’s won Bengal on his own. I’m sure the selectors are watching and there is a communication between Mohammad Shami and the selectors. But if you ask me, in terms of fitness and skill, it’s the Mohammad Shami we know of. So, I really don’t see any reason why he can’t keep playing Test matches, One-day cricket and T20 cricket for India. Because that skill is enormous,” said Ganguly as quoted by The Indian Express.
The veteran pacer underwent ankle surgery following the 2023 World Cup, where he emerged as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with an impressive 24 wickets at an average of 10.70. His stellar performance played a pivotal role in India’s dominant campaign. Recently, after his match-winning spell of 5/38 helped Bengal secure a 141-run victory in the Ranji Trophy, Shami addressed the ongoing selection controversy.
“Yes, I knew this question would come. I’m always in controversy anyway. You people have already made me the villain! What else can I do or say? In today’s world, social media twists everything. My job is to perform well. Wherever I get an opportunity, I’ll give my best. The rest is up to God. Bengal is my home. Every match I play for Bengal is like a memory for me,” Shami said.
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