IPL 2026: Sourav Ganguly explains why selectors should pick Mohammed Shami again for Team India

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Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has thrown his weight behind veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, urging selectors to bring him back into the national setup. Speaking in Kolkata ahead of the IPL 2026 clash between Lucknow Super Giants and Kolkata Knight Riders on April 9, Ganguly highlighted Shami’s recent performances as undeniable proof of his readiness for international cricket.

Ganguly made these remarks during the inauguration of the third season of the Bengal Pro T20 League, where he openly questioned the continued exclusion of the experienced fast bowler. According to him, Shami’s current form and fitness make him an automatic choice for India’s pace attack.

Making a strong tactical point, Ganguly stressed that Shami’s role should be clearly defined if he returns — as the new-ball partner to Jasprit Bumrah.

“He should be bowling at the other end of Bumrah, nowhere else. That’s how good he is,” Ganguly stated, underlining his belief in Shami’s ability to strike early and control the game upfront.

The former skipper referenced Shami’s recent IPL outing against Sunrisers Hyderabad as a perfect example of his match-winning ability. In that game, the pacer delivered a sensational spell of 2 for 9 in four overs, dismantling a strong top order featuring Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma. His performance earned him the Player of the Match award and drew widespread praise.

“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,” added Ganguly.

Ganguly also pointed to Shami’s consistent performances in domestic cricket as further evidence of his hunger and commitment. Representing Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, the 35-year-old enjoyed a standout season. He picked up 37 wickets at an impressive average of 16.72, finishing among the tournament’s leading wicket-takers. Ganguly particularly recalled Shami’s heroics in the semi-final, where he claimed eight wickets despite Bengal ending up on the losing side.

“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,” Ganguly said.

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Despite his strong performances across formats, Shami remains out of the national side, with the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar yet to recall him. This continued omission has raised questions among fans and experts alike, especially given India’s constant search for experienced fast-bowling options to support Bumrah.

Ganguly, however, remains optimistic about Shami’s future. He expressed confidence that the veteran pacer’s time will come again, emphasizing that quality players eventually find their way back.

“I still believe he should play for India. Hopefully, his time will come again because he’s that good. When the ball comes out with that upright seam, it’s a treat to watch,” he added.

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