Former captain Sourav Ganguly asserts that Mohammed Shami is close to matching Jasprit Bumrah, the world’s top bowler. With Bumrah sidelined due to injury, Shami is expected to lead India’s pace attack in the Champions Trophy alongside newcomers Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. Shami, returning from injury, initially struggled for rhythm but showcased his potential with a five-wicket haul against Bangladesh, reflecting his readiness. Ganguly emphasizes the need for Shami to maintain fitness and continuity throughout the tournament, marking him as a pivotal player for India’s chances, especially ahead of their crucial clash against Pakistan.
Former captain Sourav Ganguly believes seasoned pacer Mohammed Shami is closely trailing behind the current world’s best, Jasprit Bumrah. For the ex-BCCI president, in Bumrah’s absence, Shami should take the lead for India and bear the responsibility of leading the pace attack in the ongoing Champions Trophy. India’s pace arsenal lost its edge when Bumrah, sidelined by a lower back injury, could not spearhead the attack. Shami emerged as the sole experienced player, alongside young talents Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana.
The responsibility of spearheading India’s attack in the Champions Trophy became all the more complex for Shami, especially considering his return to international cricket following a long injury hiatus.
The seasoned speedster was still seeking his lost form leading up to the Champions Trophy. He played in two ODIs against England at home, where he managed to claim two wickets.
During India’s tournament opener against Bangladesh on a challenging Dubai pitch, Shami showcased his skills with a perfect seam position, delivering a blistering spell and concluding with a five-wicket haul after completing his full quota of 10 overs.
“Shami needs Bumrah and Bumrah needs Shami. Bumrah is unfit for the tournament, but Shami is. I wasn’t surprised by his five-wicket haul against Bangladesh,” Ganguly remarked at an event.
Ganguly remains optimistic that Shami will sustain his fitness throughout the tournament and lead India’s pace attack effectively in the absence of Bumrah.
“He will continue to lead the attack for the duration of the tournament. Bumrah is currently the best bowler in the world, but Shami is not far behind. I hope he remains fit during the tournament and takes on the responsibility like Bumrah has done when Shami was unavailable,” he added.
As Shami silenced his critics by firing on all cylinders to become the second-fastest player to reach 200 ODI wickets, his return to form is a concerning sign for the Rohit Sharma-led team.
Following a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh, India will now turn its attention to the significant challenge that lies ahead. On Sunday, India will add another chapter to their intense rivalry with Pakistan in a high-stakes clash in Dubai.
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