Veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has firmly dismissed all doubts surrounding his fitness, asserting that his return to the Ranji Trophy is proof enough that he is fully prepared for competitive cricket. Speaking ahead of Bengal’s opening match in the 2025–26 Ranji season, the 35-year-old pacer emphasized that any player capable of bowling long spells in four-day cricket is more than ready for the demands of 50-over formats.
“If I Can Play Four-Day Cricket, I’m Fit for ODIs Too” — Shami
Responds to Exclusion From Australia Series
Shami last played for India during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, but the selectors chose not to include him in the squad for the upcoming white-ball series against Australia. Addressing the decision, Shami made it clear that selection is beyond his control.
“Selection is not in my hands. If there’s a fitness issue, I shouldn’t be here playing for Bengal. If I can play four-day cricket, I can also play 50-over cricket.”
His comments, given to PTI, underline his confidence and readiness despite recent injury setbacks.
Battling Injuries but Staying Committed
In the past few years, Shami has dealt with recurring ankle and knee injuries, raising questions over his long-term availability. However, he reiterated that it is not his responsibility to constantly justify his fitness.
“It’s my job to train at the NCA and perform in matches. Giving updates is not my responsibility — my performance should speak for itself.”
Selectors Cite Lack of First-Class Cricket
Agarkar’s Explanation
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had earlier clarified Shami’s omission by pointing to his limited red-ball workload in recent seasons. Although Shami remains one of India’s most lethal fast bowlers across formats, his absence from first-class cricket in recent years has influenced selection decisions, especially with younger pacers emerging.
Shami’s Recent Workload Suggests He’s Ready
Shami countered these concerns by highlighting his recent competitive outings:
- Bowled 30 overs during the IPL 2025
- Represented East Zone in the Duleep Trophy
- Now committed to playing a full Ranji season with Bengal
These matches have helped him regain rhythm, conditioning, and match hardness ahead of the new domestic season.
Determined to Make a Comeback for India
“If the Call Comes, I’m Ready”
Despite missing recent tours, Shami remains optimistic and hungry to represent India again.
“I believe in staying ready. If the selectors call, I’m prepared. Until then, I’ll continue to play for Bengal and keep improving.”
Shami’s mindset reflects the professionalism that has defined his career since his international debut in 2013, during which he has consistently been one of India’s most reliable and impactful fast bowlers.
A Strong Advocate for Ranji Trophy’s Importance
Urges Young Players to Respect Domestic Cricket
Alongside clarifying his own fitness, Shami used the opportunity to emphasize the importance of domestic cricket, especially for younger players aspiring to play for India.
He expressed concern about the declining value some players associate with red-ball cricket.
“Earlier, playing Ranji was a big deal. Nowadays, players treat it as a step down, but I don’t agree. You must play four-day cricket to stay sharp.”
Shami highlighted that the Ranji Trophy remains essential for skill development, tactical maturity, and understanding the nuances of long spells — all crucial traits for fast bowlers.
Bengal Benefit From Shami’s Influence
For Bengal, Shami’s presence in the Ranji setup brings invaluable experience. His mentorship offers young bowlers insight into workload management, seam positioning, and reading conditions — lessons shaped over more than a decade of international cricket.
The Road Ahead: Shami’s Veteran Drive Continues
Experience Still a Valuable Asset
At 35, Shami remains among the finest seam bowlers India has produced, combining accuracy, seam movement, and an ability to maintain pressure in all phases of white-ball and red-ball cricket. His Champions Trophy performances earlier in the year reaffirmed his value.
India’s bowling group is undergoing transition, and while younger quicks are being groomed, Shami’s experience could still be decisive in major tournaments, provided he remains fit and performs consistently.
Ranji Trophy as His Comeback Platform
The 2025–26 Ranji season now becomes Shami’s primary stage to reclaim his spot. Strong performances for Bengal could accelerate his return to the national team, especially with multiple series lined up in 2026.
Conclusion: Shami’s Message — Judge Me by My Bowling, Not Assumptions
Mohammed Shami’s candid statements reflect both confidence and clarity. By returning to play four-day domestic cricket, he has sent a simple message — he is fit, focused, and committed. While selectors have their criteria, Shami’s approach remains straightforward:
Train hard, perform well, stay ready.
For now, as Bengal prepare to begin their Ranji season, Shami’s experience and determination promise to make the domestic circuit all the more compelling — and his potential India comeback an unfolding storyline to watch.
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