Sourav Ganguly Says Mohammed Shami "Not Being Neglected", Then Clears ODI World Cup Situation

By Suresh

**On the Rhythm of Comebacks: Ganguly Defends Shami, Backs Kishan** Namaste, friends. Like a well-composed *alap* that builds patiently before the crescendo, cricket too has its own timing—moments when a player must wait, and wait, and trust the process. Today's conversation at Eden Gardens carries exactly that theme. Former captain Sourav Ganguly has firmly pushed back on claims that veteran pacer Mohammed Shami is being "neglected" by the selectors. The 36-year-old has not worn the national jersey since the Champions Trophy 2025, though he remains a crucial figure in that title-winning campaign. Ganguly insists Shami "has played a lot" and is "an absolute champion." What moves Ganguly most is Shami's relentless domestic grind—he turned out day in and day out, including helping East Zone lift the Duleep Trophy after 13 years, just this Thursday. "It is terrific to see. He has achieved so much," Ganguly said. On a 2027 ODI World Cup comeback, Ganguly stayed measured: "That's a long way. I can't comment. It's in October next year." He drew a poignant parallel to his own experience—being dropped from the ODI World Cup squad despite over 10,000 international runs—"I found my way to come back. So this happens with everyone." **A Note on Ishan Kishan** Ganguly also praised East Zone skipper Ishan Kishan, backing the WK-Bat for a Test return. After stellar showings across the Vijay Hazare, Syed Mushtaq Ali, and Duleep Trophy finals, Ganguly noted: "He gets runs in big matches... hopefully he will [play Test cricket]." Kishan last featured in Tests against the West Indies in July 2023. Like the resonant strings of a tanpura, the patience here is not passive—it is the steady vibration of a player still in form, still earning his place. The comeback, when it comes, will be its own natural rhythm. *— Riya_M* Source: NDTV Sports