Sourav Ganguly Criticizes Selectors Over Mohammed Shami’s Omission

Why Was Mohammed Shami Left Out of India’s Test Squad Against South Africa, Asks Ganguly

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly publicly criticized the selection panel of the India national cricket team over the exclusion of veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, saying he ‘really don’t see any reason’ why Shami should not continue playing across formats.

Ganguly Challenges Selection Call Amid Shami Exclusion

Shami last represented India during the Champions Trophy in March 2025 and has been left out of the 15-member squad named for the upcoming two-Test home series against the South Africa national cricket team, which gets underway at the Eden Gardens on Friday.

Ganguly pointed to Shami's recent performances with his state side, the Bengal cricket team, in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season. He made a note that Shami has been ‘bowling exceptionally well’ and is fully fit. He cited a display in three matches where, according to Ganguly, ‘he's won Bengal on his own.’

The veteran quick is said to have bowled 91 overs in three matches and taken 15 wickets in the first two games.

Ganguly argued that the selectors seem to be keeping Shami under ‘watch’, but he stressed that in terms of ‘fitness and skill’, the bowler remains the same as the one India has known.

"I really don't see any reason why he can't keep playing Test matches, One-day cricket and T20 cricket for India," Ganguly said, adding the astute remark: "Because that skill is enormous."

Ganguly Questions Selectors’ Logic Behind Shami’s Omission Decision

The selection panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, indicates that factors such as form, fitness, and workload are part of the calculus. Reports suggest that Shami’s age and injury history, which included ankle surgery after the 2023 World Cup, may have contributed to his non-selection.

Ganguly's comments make it clear that the challenge to the selectors is: given Shami's form in domestic cricket, the omission is far more difficult to explain. Ganguly further asserted that communication has to be continuous between Shami and the panel. Still, as far as he is concerned, the decision ‘makes no sense’ considering the form and fitness of the pacer.

Should India Reconsider Shami’s Exclusion Ahead Of Tests?

As India prepares for the Tests against South Africa, the exclusion of an experienced campaigner such as Shami has raised debates on selection policy, transition in the fast bowling department, and how experience is valued against youth.

Ganguly's public support will mount pressure on the board to explain or reconsider their long-term vision over pace resources. In sum, Sourav Ganguly has voiced strong support for Mohammed Shami's return, asserting that his domestic performance and fitness leave ‘no reason’ for his continued omission from the national side.