Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has publicly questioned the exclusion of Mohammed Shami from the national team, despite the bowler's recent stellar performances in the Ranji Trophy. Shami, who last played for India in the Champions Trophy, has been conspicuously absent from the squad, raising eyebrows among cricket enthusiasts and experts alike.
Ganguly's comments come in the wake of Shami's impressive form in domestic cricket, where he has bagged 11 wickets in his last 3 matches. Notably, Shami spearheaded Bengal's Ranji Trophy win over Uttarakhand, claiming seven wickets across both innings. He further demonstrated his fitness and skill by taking 15 wickets in the first three Ranji Trophy matches this season. Ganguly emphasized that Shami is "fit and bowling exceptionally well," adding that he single-handedly led Bengal to victory in three Ranji Trophy matches.
"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 stated. He further added, "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".
Ganguly didn't hold back his opinion on the matter, stating, "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". He questioned the selectors' decision to overlook Shami, especially considering his recent form and experience.
The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, has seemingly been focusing on younger fast bowlers, potentially signaling a transition phase in India's pace attack. However, Ganguly suggested that Shami's experience and control could be invaluable assets for India, especially in overseas conditions. He highlighted Shami's impressive performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he emerged as the tournament's leading wicket-taker with 24 wickets, despite playing only a few matches.
Shami himself has addressed the selection controversy, asserting his fitness and readiness for all formats of the game. "If fitness is an issue, I shouldn't be playing for Bengal. I have played Champions Trophy, IPL, Duleep Trophy-I'm in good touch," Shami remarked.
The debate surrounding Shami's exclusion raises questions about the selection criteria and the balance between experience and youth in the Indian team. While the selectors may be looking to the future, Ganguly's strong endorsement of Shami suggests that the veteran pacer still has much to offer to Indian cricket.
Ajit Agarkar, the Chairman of the Senior Men's Selection Committee, has been in the role since July 4, 2023. The selection committee also includes Shiv Sundar Das, R.P. Singh, Ajay Ratra, and Pragyan Ojha. Agarkar has acknowledged the challenges and pressures associated with his role, emphasizing the impact that selection decisions can have on a player's career.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether Shami will make a comeback to the Indian team. His recent performances have certainly made a strong case for his inclusion, and with Ganguly's backing, the pressure is now on the selectors to reconsider their decision.
