Former India captain
A career defined by endurance and impact
In a video message shared by the Cricket Association of Bengal, Ganguly praised Shami’s development and his consistent contributions to
Shami enters this landmark fixture following a productive semi-final performance against Central Zone. After a quiet opening match in the tournament, the pacer demonstrated his enduring quality by taking five wickets across two innings, playing a pivotal role in East Zone’s four-wicket victory. His captain,
Looking toward an international return
The milestone comes at a crucial juncture for Shami, who is currently working to regain his place in the national setup. Having last represented India in the Champions Trophy final in March 2025, the bowler has utilised the Duleep Trophy as a platform to demonstrate his fitness and form. Kishan, who has been impressed by the veteran's energy, dismissed concerns regarding age, stating that Shami’s dedication remains as sharp as ever.
Beyond his primary role with the ball, Shami has also shown utility with the bat, recently contributing crucial boundaries to the team's cause. As he prepares for his 100th first-class outing, the focus remains on his ability to lead the attack and guide East Zone to a tournament victory, further reinforcing his credentials as he continues his pursuit of an international recall.
