On the eve of the Duleep Trophy final between East Zone and South Zone, wicketkeeper‑batsman Ishan Kishan spoke about veteran pacer Mohammed Shami and his desire to return to the Indian side. Despite being out of the national squad since the 2025 Champions Trophy win, Shami has been a dominant force in domestic cricket, prompting Kishan to highlight the bowler's renewed intensity.
Kishan, who captains East Zone, observed that age does not limit Shami's ambition. "If he works hard, the number of years does not matter," the 27‑year‑old said, adding that Shami's energy on the field has been noticeably different this season. The veteran’s presence, according to Kishan, lifts the confidence of the entire side, especially when wickets are needed.
Shami, now 36, has compiled an impressive domestic record in the 2025‑26 season. He claimed 37 wickets in the Ranji Trophy at an average of 16.72, finishing as Bengal's second‑highest wicket‑taker. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he topped Bengal's wicket charts with 16 scalps from seven matches, and in the Vijay Hazare Trophy he collected 15 wickets in seven games, leading his state in the 50‑over format as well.
Kishan noted that maintaining motivation after a three‑year gap from international cricket is challenging. "It is tough when you are not regularly playing for India, yet I see that hunger in him," he remarked, stressing that Shami actively offers bowling options and strategic advice during the match. The bowler's eagerness to prove his worth, Kishan believes, could translate into a recall for the national team.
As the Duleep Trophy final approaches, both players aim to translate domestic success into a stronger case for selection. Shami's performances and Kishan's endorsement together underscore a shared belief that the fast bowler remains a viable candidate for India's future line‑up.
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📰 Source: Mangalorean News