Sourav Ganguly has spoken out against the selectors’ decision openly. He can’t figure out why Mohammed Shami got dropped. The former captain made these comments before India plays South Africa.
Shami’s Ranji Numbers Tell Story
Mohammed Shami grabbed 15 wickets across two Ranji Trophy games recently. He helped Bengal win crucial matches with outstanding bowling spells. The 35-year-old looks completely fit and ready to go.
Ganguly watched Shami bowl brilliantly in domestic cricket this season. The veteran proved his body can handle the workload again. But selectors still left him out of England, West Indies tours.
“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.
Shami hasn’t worn the India jersey since the Champions Trophy final. His last Test came way back in June 2023 against Australia in the WTC final.
Ganguly Questions Selection Logic
The former captain sees absolutely no reason for keeping Shami out. The pacer’s skills haven’t dropped despite getting older at all. His recent performances show he can still win matches easily.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar might be worried about old injuries coming back. Ganguly thinks the selectors and Shami need to talk properly. Previous fitness problems shouldn’t matter when someone’s bowling this well.
“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,” he added.
Dada spoke to reporters ahead of the South Africa series kicking off. The first Test starts on November 14 at home here. His opinion matters because he knows Indian cricket inside out.
India Needs His Experience
Shami brings something special with his reverse swing and pace variations. Batters struggle against him even on flat pitches everywhere worldwide. India could really use someone like him for tough tours.
Ganguly feels strongly that Shami belongs in the team right now. The selectors made a mistake that needs fixing quickly. Current form should always beat everything else in selection decisions.
