Mohammed Shami isn’t just knocking on the selectors’ door—he’s kicked it down. In a stunning display of pace, precision, and relentless aggression, the veteran Indian fast bowler has stormed back into contention with a jaw-dropping Ranji Trophy performance for Bengal. Across just two matches, Shami has scalped 15 wickets—including a devastating 8/40 against Gujarat—delivering a powerful rebuttal to recent suggestions that he needs more “game time” before returning to the national setup .
His message is clear: I’m not waiting. I’m ready. And I’m firing.
Mohammed Shami’s Dominant Ranji Return
After missing much of 2024 due to injury and fitness concerns, Shami’s comeback in the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy has been nothing short of spectacular. In his first outing against Jharkhand, he picked up 7 wickets, setting the tone with reverse swing and pinpoint yorkers. But it was his second match—against a strong Gujarat batting lineup—that truly turned heads.
On a flat Eden Gardens track, Shami produced a masterclass in seam and swing bowling. He dismantled top-order batters with inswingers, cleaned up the middle order with late cutters, and finished with figures of 8/40—the best of his first-class career in over five years. Batters simply had no answer.
Why This Performance Matters
Just weeks ago, chief selector Ajit Agarkar had hinted that Shami, despite his experience, would need to “prove his match fitness” in domestic cricket before being considered for India’s upcoming home series against South Africa . Many interpreted this as a soft exit strategy for the 35-year-old.
But Shami has flipped the script. At a time when India’s pace attack is facing transition—with Jasprit Bumrah carrying a heavy load and younger quicks still finding consistency—Shami’s form offers a proven, world-class option. His ability to generate pace (consistently hitting 135+ km/h), move the ball both ways, and deliver in crunch moments remains unmatched in the Indian dressing room.
Shami’s Recent Ranji Trophy Stats (2025–26 Season)
| Match | Overs | Wickets | Economy | Best Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bengal vs Jharkhand | 24.0 | 7 | 2.83 | 5/28 |
| Bengal vs Gujarat | 18.2 | 8 | 2.18 | 8/40 |
| Total | 42.2 | 15 | 2.52 | — |
These aren’t just good numbers—they’re elite. His economy rate under 2.6 in red-ball cricket underscores his control, while his strike rate (16.9 balls per wicket) shows lethal efficiency.
What This Means for the South Africa Series
India’s home Test series against South Africa begins in early December 2025. With the Proteas boasting a formidable pace attack of their own, India will need experienced quicks who can not only contain but strike regularly. Shami’s record against South Africa is already impressive—he’s taken 22 wickets in 6 Tests at an average of 21.31 .
His recent form makes a compelling case for inclusion, not as a backup, but as a frontline weapon. As one Bengal teammate put it: “He’s bowling like he’s 25, not 35.”
Fan and Expert Reactions
Cricket analysts and former players have taken notice. Ex-India spinner Harbhajan Singh tweeted, “Shami is sending selectors a CV written in wickets.” Fans have flooded social media with #BringBackShami, while fantasy cricket platforms are already listing him as a top pick for the SA series.
In an era where comebacks are rare, Mohammed Shami is scripting one of the most dramatic—and deserved—returns in recent memory.