In the Ranji Trophy semi-final on Tuesday, Mohammed Shami destroyed Jammu and Kashmir with an incredible eight-wicket haul (8/90), demonstrating a masterpiece in pace bowling that will make the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selection committee pay attention. Shami demonstrated that his fitness and rhythm have returned to their peak when playing for Bengal at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani. His deliveries combined late swing, unrelenting precision, and the distinctive seam presentation that has made him one of the world's most feared red-ball bowlers.
Bengal relied on their veteran players to solidify the lead after posting a respectable 328 in the first innings thanks to a valiant 146 from Sudip Kumar Gharami.

Shami returned on Day 3 to clear off the tail and end with statistics that will undoubtedly renew the debate about his national selection after he had reduced J&K to 13/3 early in their first innings on Day 2.
Shami's victims included a middle-order comeback spearheaded by captain Paras Dogra (58) and Abdul Samad (82) as well as the J&K top order, where he took advantage of the early morning wetness. Even though J&K appeared to be taking the lead, it was Shami who made the pivotal discoveries.
Are Selectors for the BCCI Observing?
The timing of this performance is crucial. Shami has been gradually making a comeback to the domestic scene after being sidelined since the end of the 2023 ODI World Cup due to injuries and ensuing fitness issues.

He claimed five wickets against Gujarat and Services earlier in the season, but this eight-wicket haul is the most forceful statement he could make to the selection committee, which is helmed by Ajit Agarkar.

Shami's comeback to form gives the Indian team management a good headache because the country's international schedule includes high-stakes Test series in 2026, which may include a tour of England. He is once again prepared for the demands of five-day cricket thanks to his ability to bowl for extended periods of time at a high intensity, clock steady speeds, and extract bounce on a domestic pitch.

The focus has completely moved to Shami's mistreatment due to his non-selection as Bengal attempts to guarantee a place in the Ranji Trophy final.