Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has come forward with a firm message to the BCCI selectors following Mohammed Shami’s omission from the upcoming South Africa Test series. The decision to rest Shami despite his impressive domestic performances has raised eyebrows among cricket fans and experts alike.
Ganguly, known for his straightforward opinions, highlighted that Shami’s current form and fitness make him an invaluable asset for India’s pace attack. The ex-captain’s comments underline the importance of rewarding performance and experience, particularly in challenging overseas conditions like South Africa.
Speaking after being unveiled as the global brand ambassador of Kabuni, a UK-based AI-driven sports coaching platform, Ganguly was full of praise for the veteran pacer. “Shami is bowling exceptionally well. He is fit, and we saw that in the three Ranji Trophy matches, where he won games for Bengal on his own,” said Ganguly. His statement reflects not only admiration for Shami’s consistency but also a subtle reminder to the selectors that proven performers deserve priority.
Shami’s domestic performances have been nothing short of stellar, showcasing both endurance and mastery in seam bowling — qualities that are critical for success in South Africa’s pace-friendly conditions.
Ganguly’s remarks could put additional pressure on the selection committee to reconsider their approach toward seasoned players. At a time when India is preparing for a high-stakes series against South Africa, the absence of an experienced bowler like Shami could be felt deeply.
The pacer has a remarkable record in overseas Tests and remains one of the most reliable strike bowlers in the squad. By emphasizing his fitness and recent form, Ganguly has effectively vouched for Shami’s inclusion in the national setup.
His message also signals that India’s team balance should not be disrupted by resting key bowlers without solid reasoning. As the debate around rotation and workload management continues, Ganguly’s support may reignite conversations about valuing form over experimentation, ensuring that India fields its best possible attack for crucial international fixtures.
More must-reads:
+
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!