Ishan Kishan backs Mohammed Shami for India return after Duleep Trophy heroics
(Courtesy : X.com)
Mohammed Shami picked five wickets during East Zone’s semi-final clash against Central Zone.
Mohammed Shami’s hopes of returning to the Indian team have received a strong vote of confidence from East Zone captain Ishan Kishan. Shami last played for India in the final of the Champions Trophy 2025.
He has impressed during East Zone’s run to the Duleep Trophy 2026 final. His performance has once again raised questions about whether the experienced pacer could make his way back into the Indian team.
“Age is just a number” – Ishan Kishan supports Mohammed Shami
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East Zone qualified for the Duleep Trophy final after a thirteen-year-long gap. Shami played a major role in East Zone’s semi-final victory over Central Zone. He picked up 5 wickets in the match and also finished the game with two boundaries during their fourth-innings chase.
Mohammed Shami is 36, and the Indian selectors have repeatedly been handing out chances to younger players. However, the East Zone skipper believes that age should not be the deciding factor, especially when discussing a possible international comeback.
“I think he is just one of the best. He has been a legend of this game. He has been doing so well since he started playing for Bengal. He has been picking wickets, giving all his energy and he has done so well for the Indian cricket team also,” Kishan told reporters in the pre-match press conference.
Ishan Kishan was particularly impressed by Shami’s competitive spirit and his grit. Kishan believes the veteran pacer’s desire to represent India remains intact despite him not being part of the Indian squad for over a year.
“It’s hard to say when it comes to age, I feel age is just a number. If he is working hard, it doesn’t matter. I see that hunger in Shami Bhai because who better than me to judge about hunger right now,” Kishan said.
“He has been doing so well, especially having him in our team…it gives us a bit of more confidence,” Kishan added.
Kishan said that seeing Shami this season, he felt a significant difference compared to before. He pinned his support for Shami, heaping praise on his approach, intensity and energy in the games. He recalled how Shami himself asked for additional overs during the semi-final.
“Looking at his efforts as a captain, I felt very nice, because Shami bhai came in, asking me for those extra overs to get the wickets, this is something which always gives confidence to skippers. When you have bowlers who are willing to get you wickets. So, it’s always good to have him in the team,” Kishan said.
Kishan also added that Shami has not lost his edge despite being out of international cricket for some time. He said that while leading the side, he receives regular help from the veteran pacer. He described it as the hallmark of a player who is willing to do anything to win the match for his team.
The comments came amid renewed discussion over Shami’s international future. His recent domestic performances have proven that he has the potential to excel in international cricket.
Ultimately, it will depend on the selectors, but Kishan’s assessment makes one point clear: Shami’s hunger for a comeback has not been subdued despite repeated snubs.
When did Mohammed Shami last play for India?
Shami last played for India in the final of the Champions Trophy 2025
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