Photo via Hindustan Times

Bhuvneshwar should have been picked long back, says Shami

Mohammed Shami continued his vocal criticism of India’s selection policies during Bengal’s Ranji Trophy opener against Delhi in Kalyani, where he claimed 4 wickets for 30 runs in 17.3 overs, including nine maidens. His frustration extended beyond the pitch, as he dismissed concerns about his fitness, insisting he was playing at full capacity despite being sidelined from national consideration since early 2025.

Shami’s comments took aim at Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s recent recall for the T20I tour of New Zealand, arguing the swing bowler should have been selected much earlier given his consistent IPL performances. While acknowledging Bengal’s strong pace attack—featuring himself, Akash Deep, and Mukesh Kumar—Shami expressed disappointment in the slower-than-expected pitch conditions, which he felt undermined their bowling resources.

Bengal still managed to restrict Delhi to 240 runs by the end of Day 1, setting a competitive platform for their own innings. Shami’s outspokenness underscored broader tensions over selection criteria, with his sarcastic remark—‘No, no, I’m not a good bowler’—highlighting his exasperation with the lack of opportunities despite his ongoing domestic success.

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