Former India captain and ex-BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has urged selectors to bring Mohammed Shami back into India’s national squad, arguing that the experienced pacer still has a major role to play at the highest level. Speaking in Kolkata ahead of Kolkata Knight Riders’ match against Lucknow Super Giants, Ganguly said Shami’s skillset fits perfectly alongside Jasprit Bumrah in the powerplay.
Quick facts
- Ganguly called for Mohammed Shami’s return to India and suggested he should bowl alongside Jasprit Bumrah.
- Shami is currently with Lucknow Super Giants after moving from Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹10 crore.
- Vs Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 5: Shami took 2/9 in four overs, including 18 dot balls, dismissing Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head.
- Vs Delhi Capitals: Shami took KL Rahul on the first ball for a golden duck, finishing with 1/28.
- Ganguly praised Shami’s Ranji Trophy contribution, recalling an eight-wicket haul in Bengal’s semi-final.
- Despite strong domestic and IPL form, Shami remains outside India’s setup under chief selector Ajit Agarkar.
Ganguly’s pitch was direct: he wants Shami operating at the “other end” of Bumrah, emphasising how naturally the veteran’s rhythm and strike ability translate in T20 cricket. He pointed to Shami’s recent spell against Sunrisers Hyderabad as proof, highlighting that the pacer conceded only nine runs while striking early against two of the opposition’s most dangerous batters.
After his ₹10 crore switch from Sunrisers Hyderabad to Lucknow Super Giants, Shami has wasted little time in making an impact in IPL 2026. His early wickets have set the tone for his new franchise, and his control in the middle overs has stood out as well.
Shami’s IPL 2026 impact
In the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 5, Shami produced a sharp spell of 2/9 across his four overs, with 18 dot balls that strangled the batting tempo. He removed Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head early, both of whom are capable of changing games quickly with their attacking intent.
Earlier in the season, against Delhi Capitals, Shami struck immediately by taking KL Rahul on the very first ball of the innings. Rahul’s dismissal for a golden duck was followed by figures of 1/28, underlining how consistently Shami has delivered at crucial moments.
Ganguly was especially impressed by the SRH performance, describing it as “phenomenal” given the quality of the opposition. He stressed that the spell came against top-tier T20 players and showed exactly why Shami’s experience still matters in the format.
“He should be bowling at the other end of Jasprit Bumrah, nowhere else. That’s how good he is. 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,” Ganguly said.
Domestic pedigree and Ranji memory
Beyond IPL numbers, Ganguly also leaned on Shami’s domestic record, insisting that his continued sharpness is rooted in strong performances at the domestic level. He recalled Shami’s eight-wicket haul in the Ranji Trophy semi-final for Bengal, noting that the fast bowler played a decisive role even though Bengal ultimately fell short.
“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, I’m very happy he wants to keep playing in the Ranji Trophy. It’s tough for a fast bowler, but there’s nothing better than watching Mohammed Shami run in with the new ball,” Ganguly added.
Ganguly’s argument also acknowledged the current reality: despite consistent displays in both domestic cricket and the IPL, Shami is not currently part of India’s setup. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar remains the key gatekeeper for selection, and Shami’s status has not changed despite his form.
Still, Ganguly believes the pacer has plenty to contribute if given the opportunity. He said Shami looks physically ready and mentally sharp after bowling regularly, and suggested that his chance at international cricket should return soon.
“He looks fit and sharp. After bowling consistently, you reach peak condition. I still believe he should play for India. Hopefully, his time will come again because he’s that good,” Ganguly concluded.
