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Mohammed Shami not playing vs Services - (Source: CAB)
On Sunday, October 18, Round 2 of the Ranji Trophy 2026 kicked off nationwide. Bengal took on Services at Palam A Stadium in Delhi. The focus was on Mohammed Shami, who was left out of the playing XI.
The development comes just days after his team India, snubbed him, and the internet has gone into a frenzy over Shami’s absence from Bengal’s playing XI. Therefore, this article will shed light on why Shami is sitting on the bench.
Mohammed Shami Walks Gingerly During Practice Session
According to Lalith Kalidas of The Indian Express, Mohammed Shami spent a good amount of time with the physios before the match, and he was walking gingerly. Hence, there is a concern that the right-arm seamer has picked up a niggle.
Bengal is yet to officially issue a statement, but the development is troubling for Shami, who has been kept out of the Indian team because of a fitness issue. Besides injury concerns, there is a report that Shami has been rested.
The report mentioned that Shami was hopeful of an India comeback, but was left out of the squad that was recently announced for New Zealand ODIs and Tests. This too after Shami picked up a five-wicket haul in the 1st match.
Selectors Reveal Reason Behind Shami’s Exclusion
Devendra Pandey of the Indian Express reported that the selectors feel that Shami can’t bowl longer spells, which is why they are going after the younger lot.
“Selectors and Team management don’t have any trust in Mohd Shami’s fitness despite him playing in the Ranji Trophy. They feel he can’t bowl a longer spell, and that is why they are going with young bowlers,” tweeted Devendra Pandey.
Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep Miss Bengal’s Match vs Services
Mohammed Shami is not the only bowler to miss the ongoing Ranji Trophy match. Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep are also not playing against Services. However, the reason is different. Both Mukesh and Akash Deep have been picked for India A series for New Zealand tour.
The duo will travel to New Zealand in the coming days for the unofficial Test series, which begins on October 24 in Lincoln.
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