NEW DELHI: Bengal’s head coach, Laxmi Ratan Shukla, has unequivocally thrown his support behind seasoned India pacer Mohammed Shami, delivering a clear and pointed message to chief selector Ajit Agarkar amidst ongoing discussions about national team selection and player fitness.
Following Shami’s magnificent eight-wicket haul, which led Bengal to a commanding 141-run victory over Gujarat in the Ranji Trophy, Shukla praised the veteran fast bowler as a ‘self-made certificate’ of both his exceptional talent and unwavering fitness. This statement serves as a direct rebuke to those who had previously questioned Shami’s readiness for international cricket.
“You all witnessed how Shami bowled. There’s absolutely nothing more for me to say; his performance spoke volumes. There is no question whatsoever about his commitment,” Shukla affirmed. “The entire cricketing world knows exactly who Mohammed Shami is. He doesn’t require any certificate from anyone; his bowling itself is his certificate. He is completely fit and ready.”
This forceful declaration comes mere weeks after Agarkar had publicly cited Shami’s recent lack of game time and fitness concerns as reasons for his exclusion from India’s Test squad. However, Shami, who underwent ankle surgery earlier this year, has emphatically dismissed these doubts by claiming an impressive 15 wickets in just two Ranji matches, showcasing his potent form and full fitness.
Shukla further commended Shami’s incredible work ethic, emphasizing that despite the bowler’s desire to participate in every game, Bengal’s management is judiciously managing his workload.
“We simply cannot allow Shami to play all seven matches, even though he consistently insists he is fit and eager to play every single game. The sheer intensity with which he is bowling is nothing short of unbelievable. Even after achieving 500 wickets, he maintains a fantastic rhythm and plays with remarkable composure,” the Bengal coach added.
The veteran pace bowler, whose last appearance for India was in the Champions Trophy, played a pivotal role in securing Bengal’s first Ranji victory over Gujarat in two decades. His devastating five-wicket burst on the final day shattered the visitors’ middle order, solidifying his reputation as one of India’s foremost red-ball specialists.
Speaking after the match, a resolute Shami confirmed his full fitness and eagerness for a return to international cricket. “Every cricketer dreams of playing for their country. I am absolutely ready for that opportunity once again,” he declared. “My primary motivation is to maintain my fitness and continue performing at this level – the rest, ultimately, is in the hands of the selectors.”
With Shami demonstrating roaring form and Shukla’s words serving as a pointed critique of the selection committee, India’s current selection policies are firmly back in the spotlight. The question remains: how much longer can one of the country’s most accomplished fast bowlers be overlooked?