Sourav Ganguly Congratulates Mohammed Shami on 100th

“A remarkable achievement” — those three words from Sourav Ganguly captured the magnitude of a milestone that few Indian fast bowlers have achieved. Mohammed Shami, India’s seasoned pace spearhead, is set to become only the sixth Indian bowler to play 100 first-class matches when East Zone face South Zone at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on September 6, 2026.

The Cricket Association of Bengal honoured Shami with a felicitation ceremony in Chennai on September 5, 2026, a day before the Duleep Trophy final where he will achieve this historic feat. The association presented Shami with a silver salver, a special jersey bearing his name and the number 100 on the back, and a cricket ball signed by Sourav Ganguly himself. The gesture carried deep significance, connecting Shami’s present achievement with the legacy of Indian cricket’s leadership.

Ganguly’s Special Message

In a message that reflected their long association, Sourav Ganguly described the milestone as “a remarkable achievement” and said Shami had used his talent to go this distance.

Ganguly also signed the commemorative cricket ball presented to Shami at the ceremony, underlining the significance of the occasion for the veteran fast bowler.

The message carries extra weight given Ganguly’s own storied career and his connection with Shami through the CAB, making the felicitation even more special for the fast bowler.

Shami’s First-Class Legacy

Before the landmark appearance, Shami had played 99 first-class matches and claimed 382 wickets across his career in the format. His first-class career includes 15 five-wicket hauls, with his best figures standing at 8 for 90 — a testament to his ability to dominate batting lineups on home soil.

The list of Indian bowlers who have reached 100 first-class matches reads like a hall of fame: Anil Kumble, Kapil Dev, Javagal Srinath, Harbhajan Singh, and Zaheer Khan. Joining this elite company places Shami among the most resilient and consistent pacers in Indian cricket history, particularly remarkable given the challenges fast bowlers face in subcontinental conditions. Shami’s achievement comes at a crucial time as he prepares for the Duleep Trophy final. The tournament has provided him the platform to showcase his fitness and hunger for wickets, reinforcing his case for a potential return to the national team setup. Full coverage via BBC Sport.

What This Means for Indian Cricket

Fast bowlers achieving longevity in Indian cricket has always been a rare feat. The subcontinent’s pitches traditionally favour spin, making Shami’s consistency across nearly 100 first-class appearances even more noteworthy.

His ability to generate movement and sustain pressure over extended periods has made him invaluable to whatever team he represents. For the national selectors, Shami’s fitness and form remain key considerations as they plan for upcoming international assignments. A player of his experience brings not just wickets but also leadership and mentorship qualities to any dressing room.

FAQs

When will Mohammed Shami play his 100th first-class match?

Shami will play his 100th first-class match on September 6, 2026, when East Zone takes on South Zone in the Duleep Trophy at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.