‘He is not being neglected’: Sourav Ganguly’s blunt verdict on Mohammed Shami

Image from Picsum Photos (Free for commercial use)

Image from Picsum Photos (Free for commercial use)

Image from Picsum Photos (Free for commercial use)

Sourav Ganguly Dismisses Claims of Mohammed Shami Being Overlooked by Selectors

Former Indian cricket team captain Sourav Ganguly has firmly rejected reports suggesting that veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami is being ignored by the national selection committee. Ganguly clarified that the experienced pacer remains a vital asset to Indian cricket and that his current absence from the national team is purely tied to his recovery and fitness timeline rather than deliberate exclusion.

Addressing recent speculation regarding Shami’s place in the squad, the former BCCI President stated that the team management and selectors are carefully managing the bowler’s workload. Ganguly emphasized that a fast bowler of Shami’s caliber needs complete physical fitness before returning to the grueling demands of international cricket, especially following his extended spell on the sidelines.

Mohammed Shami, who emerged as one of the standout performers during the 2023 ODI World Cup, underwent surgery and subsequent rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Ganguly noted that prioritizing long-term durability over a rushed comeback is the right approach, reiterating that the decision-makers have full faith in the bowler’s abilities once he proves his match readiness.

Highlighting the pathway for his return, Ganguly pointed out that playing domestic matches, such as the Ranji Trophy, serves as the ideal platform for Shami to build up his bowling rhythm and prove his fitness. With an impressive record of over 400 international wickets across formats, Shami’s quality remains undisputed, and a healthy comeback will naturally open the doors for his reinstatement in the national lineup.

Key Points

• Sourav Ganguly strongly refuted claims that fast bowler Mohammed Shami is being neglected by national selectors.
• The former Indian captain stressed that Shami’s absence is entirely due to physical recovery and fitness management following injury.
• Proving match fitness in domestic competitions like the Ranji Trophy remains the key step for Shami’s international comeback.
• Ganguly reaffirmed that Shami’s proven track record makes him an indispensable player for India once fully fit.