Sourav Ganguly, the former BCCI president, has backed Mohammed Shami to again play for India in international cricket. Speaking to reporters in Kolkata, Ganguly said Shami’s ‘fitness and skill’ makes his case stronger for an international comeback.
“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.” Ganguly said. “I’m sure the selectors are watching, and there is 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.”
Shami was last seen playing for India in the ICC Champions Trophy, which India won, earlier this year. He was not included in the India squad thereafter missing the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, Asia Cup 2025, Test series against West Indies and white-ball tour of Australia because of fitness issues, as stated by the selectors.
Recently, the Bengal pacer made a great comeback in the Ranji Trophy, taking 15 wickets in just three matches and the whispers have again started for a comeback in the national team, backed by Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla and current CAB president Ganguly.
The former India captain believes that India are the favourites in upcoming series against South Africa starting from November 14 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
“Because India’s spin attack is very good. And this young team went to England three months ago and played exceptionally well. South Africa, I know they’ve played well in Pakistan. But India in India are a different kettle of fish. They’ll have to play really, really well to compete with India,” Ganguly said.
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