Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has made a strong statement with an all-round performance in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season.
After being left out of the Indian team for a long time, the Bengal pacer surprised everyone by smashing a 31-ball half-century and continuing his impressive bowling form in domestic cricket.
Shami’s Explosive 31-Ball Fifty
Playing for Bengal cricket team against Andhra Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy quarter-final, Shami came to bat at No. 10 and played a stunning cameo.
Batting Performance
| Runs | Balls | Strike Rate | Fours | Sixes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50+ | 31 | 160.61 | 7 | 3 |
His quick innings helped Bengal reach a massive 629 runs, adding valuable lower-order strength along with Mukesh Kumar.
This knock impressed selectors, including RP Singh, who has been closely watching Shami’s performances.
Strong Bowling Form This Season
Shami has not only contributed with the bat but has also been one of Bengal’s best bowlers this season.
Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Bowling Stats
| Matches | Innings | Wickets | Rank in Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 10 | 28 | 2nd Highest |
Only Shahbaz Ahmed (35 wickets) has taken more wickets for Bengal this season.
Shami also picked up key wickets in the quarter-final, while Mukesh Kumar took a five-wicket haul and Akash Deep supported with four wickets.
Still Waiting for India Comeback
Since the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, Shami has not played for India in any format.
Selectors have cited reasons such as:
- Injury concerns
- Fitness management
- Lack of regular international matches
However, with the 2027 ODI World Cup scheduled in South Africa—conditions that suit seam bowlers—fans and experts believe Shami could still make a comeback.
Bengal’s Big Total in the Match
Bengal dominated the match with strong batting performances.
Key Contributions
| Player | Runs |
|---|---|
| Sudip Kumar Gharami | 299 |
| Sumanta Gupta | Valuable contribution |
| Shakir Habib Ghosh | Important innings |
| Mohammed Shami | Quick 50 (31 balls) |
Gharami narrowly missed a triple century but anchored the innings brilliantly.
Despite being out of the Indian team, Mohammed Shami continues to perform consistently in domestic cricket. His all-round display in the Ranji Trophy proves that the veteran fast bowler still has plenty to offer—and his comeback hopes remain very much alive.
