Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami sent a strong message to the selectors with a four-wicket haul against Haryana in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025-26. The right-arm pacer recorded figures of 4/30 in four overs as Haryana posted an impressive total of 191/9 in their allotted 20 overs.
This marked Shami’s third consecutive spell of three or more wickets in the tournament, which he had previously claimed 4/13 against Services and 3/24 against Puducherry. Following his consistent performances, Shami rose to the third spot on the list of highest wicket takers in the tournament. However, despite his brilliant show, Bengal suffered their second straight defeat in the tournament.
He took 16 wickets from seven innings at an average of 14.93 and an economy rate of 8.90, with best figures of 4/13. His impressive show in domestic cricket comes as he still remains on the sidelines as he last played for India in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Shami’s last Test appearance came during the 2023 World Test Championship (WTC) final, where India lost to Australia by 209 runs. His current situation is mysterious. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had earlier said that the Bengal fast bowler had been left out from India’s tour of England due to fitness concerns, revealing that he had several discussions with him.
However, Shami has been playing regular domestic cricket for Bengal since returning to the Duleep Trophy event in September. He took 20 wickets in four Ranji Trophy matches, proving his fitness and form in the longest format at the domestic level. He continues to toil hard in domestic cricket and hopes that the selectors will eventually take notice of his consistent performances.
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Issued by:
Rishabh Beniwal
Published on:
December 9, 2025
