Mohammed Shami’s Five-Wicket Haul vs Gujarat Silences Selectors; Bengal Clinch 141-Run Win
Senior Indian pacer Mohammed Shami delivered a masterclass in red-ball bowling during Bengal’s Ranji Trophy 2025-26 fixture against Gujarat, taking a sensational five-wicket haul in the second innings to guide his team to a 141-run victory at the Eden Gardens.
Despite being left out of India’s Test squad due to fitness concerns, Shami made a strong statement to chief selector Ajit Agarkar, dismantling Gujarat’s batting lineup and proving that experience and class never fade.
Match Summary: Bengal vs Gujarat, Ranji Trophy 2025-26
| Match | Bengal vs Gujarat |
|---|---|
| Tournament | Ranji Trophy 2025-26 |
| Venue | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| Result | Bengal won by 141 runs |
| Top Performer | Mohammed Shami – 5/38 in 2nd Innings |
| Match Figures | 8 wickets (3/41 & 5/38) |
Shami’s Red-Ball Brilliance Stuns Gujarat
In Gujarat’s first innings, Shami struck early, swinging the ball both ways and removing three top-order batters with trademark seam movement. His first-innings figures of 3/41 set up the platform for Bengal’s dominance.
However, the veteran pacer reserved his best for the second innings. Chasing 327 runs, Gujarat were completely undone by Shami’s fiery spell, where he picked up 5 for 38, including the key wickets of Priyank Panchal, Het Patel, and Bhargav Merai.
His accuracy, movement off the pitch, and sustained pace made it nearly impossible for the Gujarat batters to settle. The spell also helped Bengal register a commanding 141-run victory and climb up the Elite Group A points table.
Mohammed Shami’s Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Stats So Far
| Matches | Wickets | Average | Economy | Best Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 15 | 10.46 | 2.91 | 5/38 |
Shami’s consistency has been remarkable, with 15 wickets in just two matches, reaffirming his red-ball credentials and proving his match fitness.
Shami’s Response to Agarkar’s Comments
The Bengal pacer’s fiery spell also carried an emotional undertone. Following his exclusion from India’s squad, chief selector Ajit Agarkar had remarked that Shami “needs more game time to prove his fitness.”
Unhappy with the remark, Shami responded sharply:
“Let him say whatever he wants. You have seen how I bowled. It is all in front of your eyes.”
With his latest five-wicket haul, Shami has effectively let the ball do the talking, sending a clear message that he remains one of India’s premier red-ball pacers.
Selectors Under Pressure Ahead of South Africa Tests
India’s upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa later this year could see the selectors face renewed pressure to include Shami in the squad.
Given his vast experience, ability to generate seam movement, and current domestic form, Shami’s omission would be hard to justify. His recent performance serves as a reminder of his class, especially in red-ball conditions that reward disciplined fast bowling.
Shami’s Recent Career Overview
| Year | Format | Matches | Wickets | Average | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Tests | 6 | 29 | 17.86 | 6/44 |
| 2024 | ODIs | 11 | 21 | 22.13 | 4/27 |
| 2025 (Ranji) | FC | 2 | 15 | 10.46 | 5/38 |
His overall record in first-class cricket continues to be elite, and his hunger to perform for Bengal showcases his passion to return to international cricket in top shape.
Reactions and Expert Opinions
Cricket pundits and former players have praised Shami’s determination and professionalism.
Former India cricketer VVS Laxman posted on X (Twitter):
“Class is permanent! What a spell by Mohammed Shami — rhythm, seam, and control all in one. Selectors can’t overlook this form for long.”
Even Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla applauded the pacer, calling him “a true professional who leads by example and lifts the team’s standards every time he plays.”
