Mohammed Shami: ‘My Rhythm Is Back to Where It Used to Be’

Veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami says he feels rejuvenated and confident after rediscovering his rhythm, following a match-winning performance that powered Bengal to their second consecutive victory in the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy.

At Eden Gardens, Shami delivered a masterclass in fast bowling, claiming 5 for 38 in the second innings to seal a 144-run win over Gujarat. Across the match, he bagged eight wickets in 28.3 overs, marking his 13th first-class five-wicket haul. His performances have placed him third on the season’s wicket-takers list, with 15 wickets at an average of 10.46 in just four innings.

“When you perform like this, it feels good both mentally and physically,” Shami said after the win. “Coming out of a difficult phase and performing well gives a lot of satisfaction. The time after the [2023] World Cup was tough and painful. But now my rhythm is back to where it was before. I can clearly feel there’s still a lot of cricket left in me.”

Shami, 35, endured an injury-ridden spell after India’s 2023 World Cup campaign and missed several international assignments, including the England tour. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had previously stated that Shami needed more match practice before returning to the national fold — a comment that sparked debate across the cricketing community.

However, Shami has since featured in multiple domestic and franchise competitions — including the Ranji Trophy, IPL, Champions Trophy, and Duleep Trophy — steadily rebuilding his form and fitness.

When asked if this performance marked another comeback, Shami dismissed the notion.

“This was not a comeback match for me,” he clarified. “If you had said that last year, maybe it would have made sense. But in this match, what we did was a special comeback as a team. The situation was tough, but the boys gave their all. To turn the game around like this on such a wicket is rare.”

With murmurs about his potential inclusion in India’s upcoming South Africa Test series, Shami said he preferred to focus on his immediate commitments rather than speculate about national selection.

“Controversy follows me — what can I do?” he said with a smile. “In today’s world, social media twists everything. My job is to perform. Wherever I get an opportunity, I’ll give my best. Bengal is my home, and every match I play for Bengal is special.”

Bengal coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla was effusive in his praise, calling Shami’s fitness and rhythm “unbelievable.”

“You all saw how Shami bowled — his performance said it all,” Shukla remarked. “There’s no question about his commitment. The entire world knows what Mohammed Shami is. He doesn’t need a certificate from anyone; his bowling is the certificate. He’s completely fit.”

However, Shukla added that Bengal’s management would be cautious about managing Shami’s workload.

“We can’t make Shami play all seven matches, though he insists he’s fit for every game,” the coach said. “If you compare his run-up and rhythm now with when he played for India, you won’t find any difference. Even after 500 wickets, he’s bowling with the same hunger and calmness.”

With two straight wins, Bengal are off to a strong start in the Ranji season — and with Shami back in full flow, they look poised for another deep run in the tournament.