Photo by Bollywood Hungama (CC BY 3.0), via Wikimedia Commons

'Most dangerous bowler to face in nets' - Rahane praises Mohammed Shami

Mohammed Shami’s 13-year Test career concluded in November 2026, capping a remarkable journey that began exactly a decade earlier in the same month. The Indian fast bowler took 229 wickets across 64 Tests, including 12 four-wicket hauls and six five-wicket innings, with a career-best of 6 for 56.

His final Test appearance came in March 2025 against New Zealand, marking the end of an era for a bowler whose economy rate of 3.30 and average of 27.71 underscored his consistency at the highest level.

Former India batter Ajinkya Rahane praised Shami’s relentless work ethic and match-winning mentality, calling him the ‘most dangerous bowler to face in the nets’ due to his unorthodox seam position and competitive spirit. Rahane highlighted Shami’s ability to deliver under pressure, noting his domestic performances in the Ranji Trophy as proof of his enduring hunger for Test cricket.

Despite his age and experience, Rahane believed Shami deserved another opportunity, drawing parallels to other senior players like Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who made successful comebacks. ‘He has skill and magic in his hands,’ Rahane said, emphasizing Shami’s value as a mentor and match-winner beyond just statistics.

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