Mohammed Shami (AFP Photo)
NEW DELHI: Mohammed Shami has responded to questions about his fitness and bowling rhythm, saying he is focused on playing cricket rather than paying attention to outside comments.The Bengal fast bowler made the remarks after taking four wickets against Delhi in Bengal's opening match of the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season 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 favour with the national selectors, but he said he would continue playing wherever he gets an opportunity instead of worrying about his return to the Indian team.
'It doesn't bother me'
Shami said people were free to comment on his fitness and performances, but he would continue to focus on his game."People perhaps enjoy looking and passing comments more. They say the rhythm isn't there, that he doesn't look fit, or whatever else.
It doesn't bother me. I'm on the ground, I'm playing, and I'm playing wherever I'm given 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 the return of Bhuvneshwar Kumar to the national team after a gap of four years.Asked about his own omission, Shami said he no longer wanted to comment on selection decisions and would concentrate on playing cricket.
"I have stopped making such comments. It makes no difference to me. Now, whoever wants to do whatever, let them. My job is just to play," he added.
Shami hails Bhuvneshwar's return
Shami also supported the decision to bring Bhuvneshwar back into India's T20I squad. He said the experienced pacer's return should encourage other players to keep working hard and believing in their abilities.The Bengal pacer stressed that talented players who continue to perform should not be kept out of the team for long periods."A person should keep going on hope alone," Shami said."Look at the skill he has. It's not as if he hasn't been talking to anyone or anything like that. That doesn't mean you should keep a talent out for a long time. I'm happy for him because this has come after such a long time. He has also delivered performances consistently in the IPL. If someone is working hard, showing their skill and has the potential, why shouldn't they be playing? Everyone deserves a chance to perform."Shami's comments came as he continued to make his case through performances in domestic cricket. He said he remained motivated to play for 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 elected to bowl, their pace attack made good use of the movement available on the pitch. Shami led the effort with four wickets for 30 runs, while Akash Deep took two wickets for 74 runs and Mukesh Kumar claimed one for 43.Off-spinner Amir Ghani also played an important role, taking three wickets for 45 runs.Shami dismissed Yash Dhull, Ayush Doseja, Hrithik Shokeen and Divij Mehra. Shokeen was Delhi's top scorer, making 56 off 98 balls, before Shami removed him.Delhi were eventually bowled out for 240 in 77.3 overs, giving Bengal a strong start to their campaign.With another impressive domestic performance, Shami showed that he remains focused on proving himself on the field rather than responding to questions about his fitness or selection.