Sourav Ganguly Comments on Mohammed Shami’s Absence from Indian Team
Sourav Ganguly, the President of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), has come forward to address concerns about pacer Mohammed Shami’s absence from the Indian cricket team. Ganguly stated that Shami has not been overlooked by the selectors, highlighting that he has represented India extensively, including his performance during the Champions Trophy 2025 where he took nine wickets.
Since then, Shami has been working hard domestically and recently played a key role in helping East Zone secure victory in the Duleep Trophy. He made important breakthroughs during the match, taking crucial wickets that contributed to South Zone’s collapse for 336 runs in their first innings.
East Zone managed to secure a significant lead of 372 runs in the first innings, which was enough for them to claim the Duleep Trophy title.
In an interview, Ganguly reflected on his own experience of being out of the national team despite having over 10,000 runs to his name, suggesting that comebacks are possible. He expressed uncertainty about the reasons behind Shami’s current lack of selection, but reassured that the bowler is performing well and putting in consistent efforts.
“He is doing well every day in domestic cricket,” Ganguly said. “I had a year when I wasn’t picked for the national team, but I made my way back. I don’t know why he isn’t selected now, but I believe he is on the right path.”
He also mentioned that it is difficult to predict Shami’s participation in the 2027 World Cup as that is still a year away. “He has not been neglected. He has played a lot of cricket,” Ganguly added.
In addition to discussing Shami, Ganguly praised Ishan Kishan for his outstanding performance in the Duleep Trophy final and expressed hope that he would return to the Indian Test team. Ganguly had a conversation with Kishan recently, noting, “He has played remarkably across various tournaments, and every young player aspires to play Test cricket. I hope he gets that chance soon.”
Kishan last represented India in Test cricket in 2023, and the CAB President remains optimistic about his future in the format.
