Sourav Ganguly Hits Out At Selectors For Dropping Mohammed Shami

Sourav Ganguly criticised the Indian selectors for dropping Mohammed Shami, saying the pacer is fully fit.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has criticised the national selectors for repeatedly dropping Mohammed Shami despite his consistent performances. Shami last featured for India in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval. He has since been excluded from both overseas and home Test squads, including the upcoming South Africa series. He also missed out on the limited-overs squads despite being one of India’s most reliable bowlers.

Speaking in Kolkata ahead of the India–South Africa Test series starting November 14, Ganguly said Shami remains fit and sharp, as seen in his recent domestic outings. He questioned the selectors’ decision, noting that Shami’s pace, control, and experience still make him an asset.

“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.

“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.

BCCI Refutes Claims of Miscommunication

Earlier, the BCCI had refuted Mohammed Shami’s claims of a communication gap with selectors. The board asserting that regular contact was maintained and his fitness status was well-documented. A senior board official then clarified that selectors and the support staff had repeatedly approached Shami earlier this year to join India’s Test tour of England. However, the pacer declined, citing workload concerns. The official added that BCCI’s sports science team continues to monitor Shami’s medical data and workload closely.

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Despite taking 15 wickets in three Ranji Trophy matches for Bengal this season, Shami was again excluded from India’s squad for the two-Test series against South Africa.