Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan lavished praise on Mohammed Shami after the veteran speedster's iconic performance for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 semi-final against Jammu and Kashmir in Kalyani.
Shami's performance in Ranji Trophy semifinal
Shami, who has been ignored by the national selectors since the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, was simply unstoppable with the ball at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground. Using the new ball cleverly, he struck early by removing both openers with his trademark swing and pace. As the innings continued, he brought up his five-wicket haul in the 59th over by dismissing Kanhaiya Wadhwan, who had been batting confidently.
The speedster's domination with the ball wasn’t done yet. In the 77th over, he claimed his eighth wicket by dismissing Aaqib Nabi, finishing with brilliant career-best figures of 8/90. It was one of the finest spells of his domestic career.
Irfan Pathan on Mohammed Shami
While the T20 World Cup 2026 is currently underway and Shami is not part of India’s squad, Pathan highlighted the pacer’s dedication.
Taking to X, Pathan wrote that while the World Cup is going on, one of India’s best fast bowlers is quietly working hard in the Ranji Trophy and picking up eight wickets in a semi-final.
Shami's performance in the domestic season
Shami has flexed his excellent form throughout the domestic season. Last month, he picked up 5/51 against Services in the second innings. So far this season, the 35-year-old has taken 38 wickets in seven matches, including three five-wicket hauls, making him one of Bengal’s standout performers.
Shami's last international outing
Despite these strong performances, Shami has not featured for India over the past year. His last appearance for the national side came in the Champions Trophy 2025, where he played an important role in India’s title-winning campaign, taking nine wickets in the tournament.
Thanks to Shami’s eight-wicket haul, Bengal secured a narrow first-innings lead of 26 runs. However, they struggled in their second innings and were bowled out for just 99, setting Jammu and Kashmir a target of 126 runs. The opposition is now chasing history as they look to reach their first-ever Ranji Trophy final.