In the ever-dynamic world of Indian cricket, selection debates are a common thing Virat Kohli cover drive or a Jasprit Bumrah Yorker. Still, when Sourav GangulyAs one of India’s most respected cricket minds expresses his opinion, it immediately attracts attention. Former India captain and former BCCI president has recently spoken out in support of the experienced fast bowler Mohammed ShamiQuestions are being raised on the decision to keep them out of the national system.
Ganguly’s comments have reignited the conversation about selection transparency and performance-based opportunities, especially for proven match-winners like Shami. According to Ganguly, considering Shami’s recent form and fitness, there is no reason to keep him out continuously.
Mohammed Shami’s performance speaks more than words
Shami’s career has long been defined by his resilience and relentless determination. Over the years, he has overcome injuries, personal setbacks and intense competition to establish himself as one of India’s most successful fast bowlers across all formats. Known for his seam position, late movement and consistency, Shami has been the cornerstone of India’s pace revolution in the last decade.
Recently, the Bengal fast bowler reminded everyone of his enduring class with his brilliant performance in the Ranji Trophy. Representing Bengal, Shami took 15 wickets in just three matches, and bowled several match-defining spells. His ability to squeeze the life out of unresponsive pitches and maintain control on both the old and new balls proved that age had not diminished his effectiveness.
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Sourav Ganguly supported Shami’s return to the Indian team
Ganguly strongly defended Shami, saying there was ‘no reason’ to drop the experienced fast bowler from the Indian team. He praised Shami’s recent performance ranji trophy For Bengal, where he took 15 wickets in just three matches and single-handedly won games for his team. Ganguly stressed that Shami was bowling ‘exceptionally well’ and looked as fit and skilful as ever, adding that his ability to swing the ball and unsettle the batsmen was unmatched. The former India captain also mentioned that although he is not sure about the communication between Shami and the selectors, he strongly believes that a bowler of Shami’s caliber should be a part of India’s setup in all formats – Test, ODI and T20I.
“Shami is great, he is bowling exceptionally well. You have seen in 2-3 Ranji Trophy matches where he has single-handedly led Bengal to victory. I am sure the selectors are watching. I am sure there is any communication between Shami and the selectors, I don’t know. But if you ask me in terms of fitness and skill, we know Mohammed Shami. So I don’t really see any reason why he should not be playing for India in Test matches, ODIs or T20Is. Why can’t he play? Because that skill is very big,” Ganguly said at an event in Kolkata.
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