Former Captain Calls for Shami's Return After Humiliating Defeat
Indian cricket legend Sourav Ganguly has strongly advocated for the immediate return of pace bowler Mohammed Shami to the Test squad following India's disappointing 30-run loss to South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The defeat, which concluded within just three days on Sunday, has sparked serious discussions about team selection and strategy.
The match saw India crumble while chasing a modest target of 124 runs on a challenging pitch. The home team could only manage 93 runs for the loss of 9 wickets, with the situation worsened by captain Shubman Gill's neck injury that required hospitalization after facing just three deliveries.
Ganguly's Clear Message to Team Management
Currently serving as the president of the Cricket Association of Bengal, Ganguly didn't mince words when expressing his views about team selection. "I think Shami deserves a place in this Test team," Ganguly stated emphatically during an interview with Sports Tak.
The former BCCI president specifically addressed head coach Gautam Gambhir, saying "I hope Gautam Gambhir is listening" while emphasizing the need to have faith in the experienced pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Mohammed Shami.
Ganguly acknowledged his appreciation for Gambhir's contributions to Indian cricket, particularly referencing his performances in the 2011 World Cup and T20 World Cup victories. However, he stressed that the coach must trust his senior pace attack, especially when playing on good quality Indian pitches.
Shami's Absence and Recent Performance
Mohammed Shami last represented India in Test cricket during the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia. Following the 2023 ODI World Cup, the 35-year-old fast bowler spent more than a year away from international cricket before making his comeback in 2025.
Despite his return to the national setup, Shami found himself excluded from the Test series against England (away) and the home series against West Indies. When questioned about this omission, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar cited insufficient game time as the primary reason for keeping Shami out of the Test squad.
Meanwhile, Shami has been actively participating in domestic cricket, taking wickets for Bengal in the ongoing Ranji Trophy tournament, demonstrating his match fitness and form.
The debate around Shami's exclusion has gained momentum after India's batting collapse in Kolkata, with many experts and former players joining Ganguly in calling for the experienced pacer's return to strengthen India's bowling attack in the longest format of the game.
