Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has strongly questioned the BCCI selectors’ decision to exclude veteran pacer Mohammed Shami from the squad for the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa, urging his immediate return to the national side across all formats.

Shami, who last represented India in the Champions Trophy in March, was overlooked despite an impressive display of form and fitness in the ongoing Ranji Trophy for Bengal.

The 35-year-old quick has been out of the national setup following ankle surgery after his stellar performance as the leading wicket-taker in the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Ganguly, who is also the President of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), praised Shami’s recent performance and fitness, directly contradicting the selectors’ apparent decision to move towards younger pace options like Prasidh Krishna and Akash Deep.

Addressing the media, Ganguly gave a clear message to the selection committee:

“Shami is bowling exceptionally well. He is fit and we saw in the three Ranji Trophy matches where he’s won Bengal on his own.”

“I’m sure the selectors are watching and there is a communication between Mohammad Shami and the selectors. But if you ask me, in terms of fitness and skill, it’s the Mohammad Shami we know of.”

Shami has already claimed 15 wickets for Bengal this Ranji season, bowling 91 overs over three matches, demonstrating his endurance and rhythm.

Ganguly’s staunch backing adds weight to the growing debate about Shami’s future as the pacer himself has previously expressed disappointment over being excluded despite feeling fully fit and ready for international cricket.