‘Let them do whatever’: Mohammed Shami breaks silence on India’s continued insults

Mohammed Shami (Photo AFP) NEW DELHI: Responding to questions about his fitness and bowling rhythm, Mohammed Shami said he was concentrating on playing cricket rather than paying attention to outside commentary.The Bengal fast bowler said this after taking four wickets against Delhi in Bengal’s 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season opener in Kalyani on Sunday. His figures of 4/30 helped Bengal bowl Delhi out for 240 on the first day.The 36-year-old has been out of favor with the national selectors but said he will continue to play wherever he gets an opportunity rather than worrying about his return to the Indian team.

‘It doesn’t bother me’

Shami said people are free to comment on his fitness and performances but he will continue to focus on his game.“People maybe enjoy watching more and passing comments. They say there is no rhythm, he doesn’t look fit or anything. It doesn’t bother me. I am on the ground, playing and playing wherever I get a chance. The rest is your job,” Shami said during a press conference.The fast bowler was once again left out of India’s squad, this time for the T20I series against New Zealand. The selection also marked Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to the national team after four years.Asked about his own omission, Shami said he no longer wanted to comment on the selection decision and was concentrating on playing cricket.“I stopped making such comments. I don’t care. Now whoever wants to do whatever. My job is just to play,” he added.

Shami welcomes Bhuvneshwar’s return

Shami also supported the decision to bring Bhuvneshwar back to India’s T20I squad. He said the veteran pacer’s return should encourage other players to continue to work hard and believe in their abilities.The Bengal pacer emphasized that talented players who continue to perform should not be kept out of the team for long.“One should continue to hope alone,” Shami said.“Look at his skills. It’s not like he doesn’t talk to anyone or anything like that. It doesn’t mean you should keep talent out for long. I’m happy for him because it’s come after such a long time. He’s also performed consistently in the IPL. If someone works hard, shows his ability and has potential, why wouldn’t he deserve to play?Shami’s comments came as he continued to make his case through performances in domestic cricket. He said he remained motivated to play as long as he wanted to continue his career.

Four wickets put Bengal in control

Shami backed up his words with a strong performance against Delhi in the Ranji Trophy opener.After Bengal chose the ball, their pace attack made good use of the movement available on the field. Shami led the effort with four wickets for 30 runs, while Akash Deep took two wickets for 74 runs and Mukesh Kumar took one for 43.Off-spinner Amir Ghani also played an important role, taking three wickets for 45 runs.Shami dropped Yash Dhull, Ayush Doseja, Hrithik Shokeen and Divij Mehra. Shokeen was Delhi’s top scorer with 56 off 98 balls before being removed by Shami.Delhi were eventually bowled out for 240 in 77.3 overs, giving Bengal a strong start to their campaign.With another impressive performance at home, Shami showed that he remains focused on proving himself on the field rather than answering questions about his fitness or selection.