Why has Shami not returned to India's Test squad?
Shami's four-wicket haul in Bengal's Ranji opener highlights his continued domestic form while India selectors weigh his Test return.
Mohammed Shami took four for 30 in Bengal's Ranji opener against Delhi at Kalyani on Sunday. The 36-year-old sent back Yash Dhull, Ayush Doseja, Hrithik Shokeen and Divij Mehra as Bengal bowled Delhi out for 240. Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar found early movement, while Aamir Gani took two wickets.
Shami last played Test cricket in the 2023 World Test Championship final. He has already claimed 47 wickets across formats for Bengal this season, including eight for 90 in a Ranji semi-final. Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return to the T20I squad for New Zealand has raised the same question about experienced pacers.
Shami said he would keep performing rather than speculate on a recall. He criticised the slow Kalyani pitch and said Bengal's pace attack deserved better conditions.
CricHubb Take
Shami's domestic numbers make it harder for selectors to hide behind injury concerns; the real test now is whether they are willing to pick a 36-year-old whose fitness record still carries risk.