Sourav Ganguly has come out in support of the national selectors on the issue of Mohammed Shami’s absence from the Indian cricket team.
Ganguly rejected suggestions that the veteran fast bowler was being deliberately ignored or neglected. He referred to the reality of international cricket, where selection decisions can change as players get older and teams start planning for the future.
The comments were made on September 10, 2026, and were widely reported on September 11. PTI reported that Ganguly termed Shami an “absolute champion,” dismissing suggestions that the pacer was overlooked by the selectors.
“I Was Dropped After 10,000 Runs”
Ganguly also drew from his own experience to explain why even highly accomplished cricketers can face difficult selection decisions.
The former India captain recalled that he was dropped after scoring more than 10,000 international runs. His example was to highlight that a player’s past achievements do not guarantee permanent selection.
Ganguly’s message was that these situations are part of professional cricket. Players are left out due to age, form, fitness, team balance, or the emergence of younger options.
The former captain's comments therefore support the selectors and recognize Shami's contributions to Indian cricket.
Shami still an “Absolute Champion”
Even while defending the selection process, Ganguly was unequivocal about Shami's stature.
He described the experienced pacer as an “absolute champion” and said his comments should not be viewed as a criticism of Shami's ability.
Shami is one of India’s most successful fast bowlers in recent years. His ability to swing the ball, generate seam movement, and deliver attacking spells has made him an important figure in India's international cricket history.
However, his absence has raised doubts among the Indians if he is still in India's plans.
Selection decisions often alter with age
Ganguly’s argument is about the changing nature of international sport. Experienced players eventually face competition from younger cricketers, and selectors must weigh up current form, fitness, and the team’s long-term requirements.
Ganguly’s own career shows that even established stars can experience periods outside the national side.
His comparison with his own career also serves to frame the current Shami debate. Ganguly seems to be asking supporters to recognize that selection is ultimately based on the team’s present requirements rather than questioning Shami’s achievements.
Shami's India future remains a talking point.
The issue of Shami will continue to be very important to Indian cricket fans.
He has all of his experience and record, and he is still a good option, but the selection committee will need to decide if he fits in the team’s immediate and long-term plans.
Ganguly’s recent comments have thus attempted to strike a balance between both sides of the debate: acknowledging Shami’s excellent career and defending the right of selectors to make difficult decisions.
For now, the former India captain’s message is clear– Shami’s absence should not be interpreted as disrespect or neglect, and selection setbacks are something even the best Indian cricketers have encountered.
Ganguly’s own reminder that he was dropped despite crossing the 10,000-run mark is a powerful example of how unpredictable international cricket can be.
