Sourav Ganguly Advocates for Mohammed Shami's Return to Indian Cricket Team

Mohammed Shami's exceptional performances in domestic cricket have led to increasing calls for his return to the Indian national team. Former captain Sourav Ganguly has voiced strong support for Shami, highlighting his impressive wicket-taking ability and fitness. Despite being overlooked by selectors due to fitness concerns, Shami's recent achievements, including a stellar match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, have reignited discussions about his potential comeback. Ganguly's endorsement emphasizes Shami's readiness to contribute alongside Jasprit Bumrah, making a compelling case for his inclusion in the national squad.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 8, 2026, 09:48 IST

Mohammed Shami's Impressive Performance Ignites Comeback Calls

Mohammed Shami continues to showcase his wicket-taking prowess, leading his team to victories, yet he remains absent from the Indian national squad, leaving many astonished. Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has expressed his support for Shami's inclusion in the national team, suggesting he should bowl alongside Jasprit Bumrah. The selectors have defended their decision, citing fitness issues, but Shami's recent performances tell a different tale. He earned the player of the match title with a remarkable spell of 2-9 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, helping Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) secure a win. In the 2025-2026 domestic season, he claimed 67 wickets across various tournaments, including the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. This has led to increasing calls for his return.

“He should be bowling at the other end of Bumrah, nowhere else. That's 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. That was phenomenal,” Ganguly remarked during the launch of the third season of the Bengal Pro T20 League on Tuesday. “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,” he added.

Ganguly Praises Shami's Dedication and Fitness

'Mohammed Shami Looks Fit And Sharp' - Sourav Ganguly

Ganguly commended Shami for his hard work in domestic cricket, despite being overlooked for the national team. He emphasized that Shami appears fit and sharp, reiterating his support for the bowler's return to the Indian squad. “I'm very happy he wants to keep playing in the Ranji Trophy. It's tough for a fast bowler, but there's nothing better than watching Mohammed Shami run in with the new ball,” he stated. “He looks fit and sharp. After bowling consistently for months, you naturally reach peak conditions – no amount of training matches that. I wish him all the best and would love to see him back in India colours,” Ganguly concluded.