Mohammed Shami, an Indian experienced bowler, has recently found himself at the center of a selection debate after being absent from the national squad in all formats since the Champions Trophy in March. Despite actively participating in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, his chances of returning to the Indian team, notably in Tests and T20Is, appear to have lessened.
The Bengal pacer last played for India in 2023, after suffering a major heel injury that necessitated surgery and a lengthy recuperation period. Given his age and injury history, which includes a knee operation about a decade ago, selectors are concerned about his fitness and ability to meet the demands of international cricket, particularly in the longer formats.
While some stories have suggested that Shami’s absence was due to a breakdown in communication between him and the selectors, sources within the BCCI say that the truth is more complex.
The board is said to be constantly watching his workload and recovery progress, implying that his return to the national squad may be significantly reliant on fitness tests and the team’s shifting strategy ahead of future series.
“There have been multiple times that national selectors and support staff from the BCCI Centre of Excellence have called to check on Shami. The selection committee was desperate to get his services in England as Jasprit Bumrah could not have played more than three Tests,” said a senior board official as quoted by Hindustan Times.
This was further reflected in communications from a senior member of the selection panel, who had repeatedly reached out to Shami, urging him to participate in the India A series against the England Lions in England.
The selectors viewed these matches as an ideal platform to assess Shami red-ball fitness ahead of the five-Test series.
However, Shami reportedly declined the offer, explaining that he needed more time to build his workload and regain full match readiness. He also conveyed that he did not wish to be considered for the assignment at that stage, prioritizing a measured recovery process over a premature return to competitive action.
“So the narrative that there was no communication with Shami isn’t an absolute truth,” the official said.
The right-arm fast bowler has made a strong start to the Ranji Trophy season for Bengal, emerging as a key performer for his side. He has already claimed 15 wickets in the first two matches, playing a pivotal role in Bengal’s victories against Uttarakhand and Gujarat. Despite his impressive domestic form, Shami’s return to international cricket remains uncertain.
His next possible opportunity to don the India colours could come in the upcoming ODI and T20I series against South Africa, though at present, the chances of his selection appear slim.
India
