Kolkata: Indian cricket team’s pace spearhead Mohammed Shami has openly challenged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selection committee, particularly targeting chief selector Ajit Agarkar, over his continued exclusion from the national squad.
Shami, sidelined since the 2023 World Cup due to fitness concerns, expressed frustration after being overlooked for the upcoming Australia tour.
Speaking at Eden Gardens during Bengal’s practice session ahead of their Ranji Trophy 2025-26 opener against Uttarakhand, Shami dismissed doubts about his fitness. “I’ve played the Champions Trophy 2025, IPL 2025, and Duleep Trophy, and I’m in good touch,” he asserted. “If I can play four-day cricket, I can handle 50-over matches. Selection isn’t in my hands, but providing fitness updates isn’t my job either. My role is to prepare at the NCA and play matches.”
Shami’s remarks come after Agarkar cited a lack of fitness updates as the reason for his exclusion. The pacer, who was India’s leading wicket-taker in the Champions Trophy 2025, questioned the selection process, stating, “They need to ask for updates. That’s their responsibility, not mine.”
Despite injuries plaguing him post-2023 World Cup, Shami’s recent performances underline his readiness. His exclusion raises questions about the selection committee’s communication and criteria, stirring debate among fans and analysts.
As Shami gears up for domestic cricket, his fiery response signals his determination to reclaim his spot in Team India.