Did Irfan Pathan Just Call Out Shami's Brilliance After His 8-Wicket Haul?
Synopsis
Irfan Pathan has praised Mohammed Shami for his incredible performance in the Ranji Trophy semi-final, where he took an astonishing 8 wickets. Shami's impressive form raises questions about his absence from the Indian T20 World Cup squad. Can his continued excellence in domestic cricket influence future selections?
Key Takeaways
Mohammed Shami achieved a remarkable 8-wicket haul in the Ranji Trophy semi-final.
Shami's career-best figures of 8/90 highlight his exceptional talent.
Irfan Pathan praised Shami's performance while he is absent from the T20 World Cup.
Shami's consistent form includes three five-wicket hauls this season.
Shami's contributions are vital for Bengal as they aim for their first Ranji Trophy final .
Kalyani, Feb 17 (NationPress) Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lauded Mohammed Shami following an impressive performance where the right-arm pacer claimed an 8-wicket haul while representing Bengal against Jammu and Kashmir in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 semi-final at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground.
Shami has shown consistent excellence in the domestic arena, delivering match-winning spells for his team, Bengal. He initially dismantled both openers with his exceptional swing and pace using the new ball. He secured his five-wicket haul in the 59th over by dismissing Kanhaiya Wadhwan, who had been in excellent form.
The right-arm pacer completed his eight-wicket haul by taking the wicket of Jammu and Kashmir’s fast bowler Aaqib Nabi in the 77th over, achieving his career-best figures of 8/90.
Pathan remarked on the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, noting that Shami was not included in India's squad while commending the Indian pacer's outstanding performance.
“While the World Cup is ongoing, one of India’s finest fast bowlers @MdShami11 is putting in the hard work in the Ranji Trophy. 8 wickets in the semi-final,” he stated on X.
Shami also took a five-wicket haul against Services last month, ending with figures of 5/51 in the second innings. Overall, the 35-year-old has amassed 38 wickets in seven matches, including three five-wicket hauls, solidifying his position as one of the standout bowlers this Ranji season for Bengal.
Despite his remarkable performances, Shami has not been selected for India’s squad over the past year. His last appearance for the Men in Blue was at the Champions Trophy 2025, where he played a crucial role in helping the team clinch the title with nine wickets.
Thanks to Shami’s stellar performance, Bengal took a first-innings lead of 26 runs, but they were bowled out for just 99 runs in the second innings, setting a target of 126 runs for Jammu and Kashmir as they aim to make history by reaching their first-ever Ranji Trophy final.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the significance of individual performances in the context of the larger cricketing landscape. Mohammed Shami’s recent achievements in the Ranji Trophy exemplify the depth of talent within Indian cricket, even as discussions about team selection for major tournaments like the T20 World Cup continue. Shami's contributions should not be overlooked, as they may influence future selections and the overall strength of the national team.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Mohammed Shami's performance in the Ranji Trophy semi-final?
Mohammed Shami took an impressive 8 wickets for 90 runs in the semi-final against Jammu and Kashmir, achieving his career-best figures.
Why is Shami not part of the T20 World Cup?
Despite his outstanding domestic performances, Mohammed Shami was not selected for India's squad in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026.
How many wickets has Shami taken in the Ranji Trophy this season?
Mohammed Shami has taken a total of 38 wickets in seven matches during the current Ranji Trophy season.
What did Irfan Pathan say about Shami?
Irfan Pathan praised Shami's efforts, highlighting his 8-wicket haul during the Ranji Trophy semi-final while the T20 World Cup is ongoing.
What is the significance of Shami's performance for Bengal?
Shami's exceptional bowling helped Bengal secure a first-innings lead and set a target of 126 runs for Jammu and Kashmir in their semi-final match.
