NEW DELHI: Senior pacer Mohammed Shami has emphatically signaled his availability for a coveted India comeback, confidently stating that his “hard work is paying off” after an awe-inspiring display for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy. The seasoned fast bowler, recently sidelined from national duties due to ankle surgery, unleashed a devastating spell that propelled Bengal to a commanding 141-run victory over Gujarat at the iconic Eden Gardens. This dominant performance has unequivocally reignited calls for his immediate recall to the national side.
Mohammed Shami (Image via X post)
Taking to social media platform X, Shami shared his elation, posting photos from the match and showcasing the match ball, accompanied by the caption: “Grateful for the rhythm and hard work paying off. Always proud to represent my team.” It was a subtle yet undeniably potent message directed at both his critics and the national selectors.
The 35-year-old pacer showcased his vintage best, snatching 5 wickets for just 38 runs in Gujarat’s second innings, culminating in an impressive eight-wicket haul for the entire match. These figures not only marked his 13th five-wicket haul in first-class cricket but also firmly established him among the top three wicket-takers in the ongoing Ranji season, boasting 15 wickets at an exceptional average of 10.46 from a mere four innings.
Post-game, Shami articulated his straightforward motivation: to maintain peak fitness and deliver strong performances. “Every person wants to play for the country. So, I am ready for that again. My job is to stay fit and keep performing; the rest is in the selectors’ hands,” he asserted.
The victory at Eden Gardens held particular significance, marking Bengal’s first Ranji triumph over Gujarat since 2003. Shami’s devastating burst on the final day proved to be the decisive factor, swinging the match firmly in Bengal’s favor. He expressed immense relief, stating, “It’s a relief, mentally and physically. Coming back after such a difficult time and still performing well shows that there’s plenty of cricket left in me.”
Shami’s recent exclusion from India’s white-ball tour of Australia had previously fueled a public dispute with chief selector Ajit Agarkar regarding his fitness status. Agarkar had questioned Shami’s match-readiness, to which the pacer had sharply retorted that reporting on his fitness was not his responsibility. However, his recent, dominant spell seems to have rendered all verbal exchanges unnecessary, letting his performance speak for itself.
Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla effusively praised Shami’s efforts, declaring, “Mohammed Shami doesn’t need a certificate from anyone. His bowling is the certificate. He’s completely fit and in top rhythm.”