![Mohammed Shami has shown impressive form [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1761730429471_Mohammed_Shami.jpg?type=hq)
Mohammed Shami has shown impressive form [Source: AFP]
Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has made headlines again with his brilliant form in domestic cricket. After being left out of India’s main squad for several series, Shami answered his critics in style. Playing for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy against Gujarat at Eden Gardens, he bowled a match-winning spell, taking eight wickets and leading his team to a 141-run victory.
This performance came right after a reported disagreement between Shami and BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar, but instead of responding with words, Shami let his bowling do the talking.
Despite concerns over his fitness after an ankle injury he suffered during the 2023 World Cup, Shami looked fitter and sharper than ever. His 5/38 spell in the second innings of that Ranji match was his 13th five-wicket haul in first-class cricket and he now has 15 wickets in just four innings this season at an average of 10.46. Clearly, Shami is not done yet.
Mohammed Shami's stellar home record vouches for his return
While Shami’s domestic success shows he is ready to return, the question remains, is India ready to use him? The upcoming home Test series against South Africa in November could be the perfect stage for his comeback.
| Criteria | Home | Away |
| Inns | 42 | 80 |
| Wickets | 76 | 153 |
| Avg | 22.11 | 30.5 |
| S/R | 42.62 | 54.09 |
[Mohammed Shami's performances by gome and away]
As shown in the table, Mohammed Shami has been outstanding with the ball in home conditions. Compared to his performance overseas, he performs much better in India. In just 42 innings, he has taken 76 wickets at an impressive average of 22.11. Since making his debut in 2013, Shami has been India’s second-best fast bowler at home after Umesh Yadav.
Notably, Shami’s record in first-class cricket speaks volumes. In 92 matches, he has taken over 355 wickets with an impressive average of 26.60. In home Tests, he has 76 wickets in 42 innings, maintaining an economy rate of 3.11 and a strike rate of 42.62. These numbers clearly show his ability to deliver consistent performances, especially in Indian conditions.
India can test Mohammed Shami by resting Bumrah or Siraj
However, India already have a strong pace attack featuring Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, both of whom have been playing non-stop cricket. Bumrah recently featured in the T20I series against Australia, following a busy schedule with the Asia Cup 2025 and the West Indies Tests. To manage his workload and keep him fresh for the upcoming T20 World Cup, India might consider resting him for the homes Test series.
Meanwhile, there is another take as well, India can consider resting Siraj. The 31-year-old pacer has been India’s most consistent Test bowler recently. In the five-match Test series against England, he played every game and took 23 wickets, the most by any Indian bowler in the series.
But continuous cricket can lead to fatigue or injuries. If India want to use Shami, they can decide to give Siraj some rest. Notably, Shami’s experience and control at hime could prove valuable against South Africa’s strong batting lineup.
At the same time, having Shami back gives India more flexibility. They can manage the workload of both Bumrah and Siraj without compromising the bowling quality. Having said that, Mohammed Shami has done everything possible to prove his readiness. Now the ball is in India’s court.
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