Ranji Trophy: Mohammed Shami reminds selectors of his value with roaring fifer against Services

Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami delivered a masterclass performance during Bengal’s Ranji Trophy 2025-2026 encounter against Services at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani. The veteran pacer dismantled the opposition's batting lineup, claiming the wickets of SG Rohilla, Ravi Chauhan, Rajat Paliwal, Vineet Dhankhar, and AP Sharma. This exceptional display marked Shami's 14th five-wicket haul in First-Class cricket, reaffirming his status as one of the country's premier fast bowlers.

Mohammed Shami runs riot with fiery fifer against Services

Supported by Mukesh Kumar’s two wickets, Shami's spell left Services struggling at 231/8 by the end of the day, following their modest first-innings total of 186. Services still trail by 102 runs, leaving Bengal in a prime position to wrap up the match early on Day 4 and secure maximum points. For Shami, this performance serves as a significant statement as he continues his push to regain his place in the national team.

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The high-quality spell comes amid a public disagreement between Shami and the BCCI selection committee. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has previously cited fitness concerns and other undisclosed factors as reasons for Shami’s recent exclusion from the Indian squad. In response, the 35-year-old pacer has criticized Agarkar’s stance, pointing to his consistent activity in the domestic circuit as proof that his physical condition is not an issue.

Mumbai dominate Hyderarbad

In another match, Hyderabad found itself in a precarious position at the end of Day 3 in their clash against Mumbai at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. After Mumbai piled on a massive total of 560 runs—fueled by a double century from Sarfaraz Khan and a hundred from Siddhesh Lad—Hyderabad was dismissed for 267 in their first innings. Forced to follow on, the Mohammed Siraj-led side has struggled once again, collapsing to 166/7 in their second innings. Mumbai’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Mohit Avasthi and Musheer Khan with three wickets each, looks poised to secure a dominant innings victory.

Elsewhere, Uttar Pradesh is facing a heavy defeat against Jharkhand after failing to find any rhythm with the bat. Having been bowled out for a meager 176 in their first innings, the Aryan Juyal-led team fared even worse in their second attempt, ending Day 3 at a dismal 69/7. Jharkhand, which declared their first innings at a towering 561/6, currently holds a massive lead. Uttar Pradesh remains 316 runs behind, facing an uphill battle to avoid a comprehensive loss on the final day.