Home
Sourav Ganguly has finally broken his silence on the Mohammed Shami situation. He has rejected the claims that Shami is being neglected by the selectors. The former India captain and Cricket Association of Bengal president defended Shami’s position in the national setup while expressing optimism about Ishan Kishan’s prospects of a Test return.
ADVERTISEMENT
Sourav Ganguly weighs in on Mohammed Shami’s prospects for 2027 ODI World Cup squad
Speaking to reporters at Eden Gardens on Thursday, Ganguly rejected suggestions that the veteran pacer was being overlooked by selectors. He said:
“He is not being neglected.”
Ganguly added:
“He has played a lot. He is an absolute champion. But as you grow older, this happens.”
The former Indian player noted that Shami continues to perform consistently in domestic cricket and declined to speculate on whether the 35-year-old would feature in India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad, describing the tournament as still a year away. He told PTI:
“That's a long way. I can't comment. It's in October (next year). It's a long way.”
Ganguly went on to give his example of being omitted from the World Cup one-day cricket for a year, but found his way to make a comeback. Meanwhile, he also praised East Zone captain Ishan Kishan, who has impressed in recent domestic finals and made some historic records.
Gaunguly is hopeful that Ishan Kishan will play Test cricket following his impressive innings.
“He played exceptionally well in all the finals of the Vijay Hazare, Syed Mushtaq Ali, and Duleep Trophy.”
Kishan last appeared in a Test match for India in July 2023. He recently became the only second captain in the history of East Zone to record a double century. The comments come shortly after East Zone’s triumph in the Duleep Trophy, in which both players featured prominently.
ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly speaks on government control of Eden Gardens for Mahalaya event as Ranji Trophy tie shifted
ADVERTISEMENT
