**Mohammed Shami Responds to India Snub with Ranji Trophy Three-Fer**
*By Rajdeep Saha | October 15, 2025, 07:55 PM*
Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami made a strong statement with the ball on Day 1 of Bengal’s 2025-26 Ranji Trophy clash against Uttarakhand at Eden Gardens. Shami, who had earlier dismissed concerns about his fitness ahead of the tournament, helped bowl out the visitors for 213, claiming impressive figures of 3 wickets for 37 runs from 14.5 overs.
This performance was seen as a clear message from Shami, who was recently left out of India’s upcoming ODI series against Australia.
### Reaction to Exclusion
Speaking to PTI, Shami addressed his snub from the national white-ball side, emphasizing his fitness and readiness to play. “If I can play four-dayers [Ranji Trophy], I can also play 50-over cricket,” he stated firmly. He further clarified that selection decisions are beyond his control and asserted that if there were any fitness concerns, he wouldn’t be playing for Bengal.
Shami stressed the importance of focusing on preparation and performance instead of continuously updating his fitness status to the public.
### Commitment to Domestic Cricket
Shami also expressed his dedication to domestic cricket. “In the old days, Ranji Trophy was a big level for anyone,” he remarked, adding that he does not consider playing the Ranji Trophy as an ‘insult’ or a step down. The experienced pacer made it clear that while he respects selectors’ decisions, he will continue contributing to Bengal. “I am ready to go whenever they [selectors] want me to go,” he affirmed.
### Career Milestone
With his three-wicket haul against Uttarakhand, Shami reached a milestone of 343 wickets in first-class cricket across 91 matches (171 innings). Notably, 229 of these wickets have come for India in Test cricket from 64 games, at an average of 27.71.
Mohammed Shami’s strong showing in the Ranji Trophy underlines his continued competitiveness and commitment, sending a message that he remains a key contender for national selection.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/shami-picks-three-fer-for-bengal-in-ranji-after-india-snub/story