Mohammed Shami delivered a masterclass in seam bowling during the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 semi-final at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground, reminding everyone why he remains one of India’s premier fast bowlers. In helpful conditions, Shami didn’t just rely on assistance from the pitch — he maximised it with skill, control and relentless discipline against Jammu and Kashmir.
After Bengal were bowled out for 328 in their first innings, Shami struck immediately with the new ball. He removed both Jammu and Kashmir openers in his opening spell, setting the tone for what would become a devastating outing. Later, he broke a crucial 147-run stand between Paras Dogra and Abdul Samad, dismissing Samad late on Day 2 to swing momentum back in Bengal’s favour.
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Day 3 belonged entirely to Shami. Starting with three wickets already to his name, he wasted little time adding to his tally. He struck with just his sixth delivery of the morning and soon dismissed the other overnight batter to complete a well-earned five-wicket haul. But the experienced pacer wasn’t done yet.
An 8️⃣-wicket masterpiece 🫡
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Mohd. Shami wreaks havoc with his career-best First Class figures of 8/90 🔥
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He removed Vanshaj Sharma in his next burst, pushing Jammu and Kashmir further into trouble. With the visitors still needing 97 runs to level Bengal’s total and only two wickets in hand, Auqib Nabi Dar and Yudhvir Singh Charak mounted a spirited 64-run counterattack. Bengal briefly rotated their bowlers, but the breakthrough eluded them.
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When Shami returned, the contest ended swiftly. He dismissed Yudhvir with a sharp delivery and later bowled Nabi to finish with remarkable figures of 8/90 in 22.1 overs — his best in first-class cricket. His performance secured a 26-run first-innings lead for Bengal and sent a timely reminder to national selectors that Shami still has plenty left to offer at the highest level.
