Mohammed Shami gets the ball talking, sinks Delhi in Ranji Trophy

In a Ranji Trophy Elite Group 'C' clash between Delhi and Bengal at the Bengal Cricket Academy ground in Kalyani, Delhi's coach Vijay Dahiya aimed for his team to compete against an almost Indian pace attack featuring Mohammed Shami, Akash Deep, and Mukesh Kumar. However, Delhi fell short, being dismissed for just 240 runs on Day 1 of the match.

Bengal skipper Abhimanyu Easwaran won the toss and elected to field first, allowing the Bengal pace trio to take control of the game. Offspinner Aamir Gani took 3 wickets for 45 runs, while Shami and Akash Deep claimed 4 wickets each, and Mukesh Kumar got 1 wicket for 43 runs. Shami led the way, picking up 4 wickets for 30 runs, while Akash Deep managed 2 wickets for 74 runs, and Mukesh Kumar took 1 wicket for 43 runs.

Mohammed Shami's performance caught the attention of cricket fans and commentators alike. Despite not being in his best form, Shami remained as effective as ever, taking the new ball and spreading his 17.3 overs across six spells. Shami planned to bowl for three to four overs at a stretch, conserving energy and staying prepared for potential partnerships.

Shami explained his ability to move the ball both ways, attributing it to his natural strength and the need to be smart enough to utilize it effectively. Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's comeback to the national team, after a four-year gap, gained momentum following this match. Shami expressed his support for Bhuvneshwar's return, questioning why the skilled player should be deprived of showcasing his talents.