Sourav Ganguly has thrown his weight behind Mohammed Shami, saying the seasoned pacer still deserves a place in the Indian team and is good enough to operate from the other end alongside Jasprit Bumrah. Even though Shami has continued to be overlooked by selectors across formats, his recent performances have once again underlined his quality and value.
The right-arm quick was the standout performer as Lucknow Super Giants secured their first win of IPL 2026, beating Sunrisers Hyderabad by five wickets. Shami produced a superb spell of 2/9 in Hyderabad, bowling 18 dot balls and dismantling SRH’s top order with his control and discipline. His effort laid the foundation for LSG’s much-needed victory.
Shami’s form has not been limited to the IPL. After returning from injury, he has stayed sharp for Bengal as well, finishing among the top six wicket-takers in the recent Ranji Trophy with 37 wickets at an excellent average of 16.72. He also played a key role in guiding Bengal to the semifinals, once again proving his fitness, rhythm and match-winning ability.
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“He should be bowling at the other end of Jasprit Bumrah, nowhere else. That is how good he is. We all saw that spell the other night against Sunrisers Hyderabad, four overs, nine runs against two of the best T20 players, Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma,” Sourav Ganguly said at an event.
Shami’s Player of the Match performance has only strengthened calls for his India comeback. Ganguly also pointed to his strong Ranji Trophy campaign as further proof that the veteran fast bowler is still operating at a high level.
“He had a strong Ranji Trophy season for Bengal. I still remember that semi-final, even though Bengal lost, he picked up eight wickets. He was instrumental in taking the team that far,” Sourav Ganguly added.
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“I am very happy he wants to keep playing in the Ranji Trophy. It is tough for a pacer, but there is nothing better than watching Mohammed Shami run in with the new ball,” he said.
