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Mohammed Shami should play alongside Bumrah: Ganguly backs pacer's return
08 Apr 2026

Former Team India captain Sourav Ganguly has called for the return of pacer Mohammed Shami to the national side.

His call comes on the back of Shami's remarkable form in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season for Lucknow Super Giants. He took 2/8 in just four overs against Sunrisers Hyderabad in his latest outing.

Speaking ahead of LSG's match against Kolkata Knight Riders, Ganguly stated that Shami's recent performances warrant an immediate comeback to Team India.

Shami should bowl with Bumrah, says Ganguly
Strategic pairing

Speaking in Kolkata, Ganguly stressed that Shami "should be bowling alongside Jasprit Bumrah" in the national team.

He said, "He should be bowling at the other end of Jasprit Bumrah, nowhere else. That's how good he is."

The former Indian captain praised Shami's recent performance against the Sunrisers, where he bowled four overs for just nine run, dismising Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma.

Ganguly praises Shami's determination and fitness
Endorsement

Ganguly also highlighted Shami's incredible Ranji Trophy season for Bengal, where he took an innings eight-wicket haul in the semi-final.

The former Board of Control for Cricket in India president lauded Shami's fitness and determination to continue playing in the Ranji Trophy despite the physical demands of fast bowling.

"He looks fit and sharp," said Ganguly, adding that after months of consistent bowling, one naturally reaches peak condition.

Debate over Shami's exclusion
Future outlook

Despite being among the wickets in the latest domestic season, Shami is still not in the Team India mix. He last played the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final.

"I still believe he should play for India. Hopefully, his time will come again because he's that good. When the ball comes out with that upright seam, it's a treat to watch," Ganguly added.

Known for his accuracy, Shami, 35, has 462 wickets across formats for India.