Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has publicly called for veteran pacer Mohammed Shami to remain an integral part of the national team across all formats. Speaking in support of the 35-year-old, Ganguly emphasized that Shami’s current form and fitness leave “no reason why he can’t keep playing Test, ODI, and T20 cricket for India.” The endorsement comes amid discussions over Shami’s absence from recent national squads despite strong performances in domestic cricket.
Shami, representing Bengal in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season, has demonstrated his enduring skill and stamina. He has bowled long spells, claimed multiple key wickets, and played a pivotal role in helping his side secure important victories. Returning from ankle surgery after the 2023 World Cup, Shami has regained full fitness and continues to display the speed, accuracy, and tactical acumen that made him a cornerstone of India’s pace attack in earlier campaigns.
Despite these performances, Shami has not featured in India’s squads for high-profile home series, including the recent Tests against South Africa. Selectors have reportedly raised concerns over workload management and age, prompting debate among cricketing experts and fans. Ganguly, however, questioned this rationale, pointing out that Shami’s domestic workload and conditioning clearly demonstrate his readiness for international competition.
Ganguly’s backing carries significant weight, given his status as a former captain, influential cricket administrator, and respected voice in Indian cricket. By advocating for Shami’s continued inclusion, he highlights not only the pacer’s performance but also the value of experience and leadership in the team. Shami’s ability to adapt seamlessly across formats—red-ball Tests, 50-over ODIs, and T20 matches—adds depth to India’s pace attack, particularly when paired with bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, with whom he has formed a formidable partnership in the past.
The debate around Shami also touches on India’s broader pace-bowling strategy. While selectors are looking to balance youth development with immediate results, Ganguly’s stance underscores the importance of proven match-winners who can deliver under pressure. For Shami, who has publicly expressed his desire to play for India “till my last breath,” this support offers both recognition and momentum as he continues to press for a return to the national side.
Ultimately, the discussion reflects the tension between planning for the future and leveraging experienced talent. Ganguly’s advocacy positions Shami not as a player nearing retirement but as a dynamic, in-form cricketer whose contributions remain vital. Whether the selectors respond by recalling Shami will influence not only India’s bowling strength across formats but also the message sent to other senior players navigating the twilight of their careers.
As domestic and international seasons progress, the cricketing community will be watching closely. Shami’s case exemplifies the ongoing balance between fitness, performance, and strategic squad planning, while Ganguly’s support highlights the enduring impact of veteran leadership in India’s cricketing framework.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025