New Delhi, Nov 11 : Senior India pacer Mohammed Shami is once again in the spotlight after being left out of the national team. The experienced bowler, who last played for India in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, has been away from international cricket since. While Shami insists he is fit and ready to play, a senior BCCI official confirmed that the pacer was approached by selectors for the England series but chose not to participate.
BCCI’s Explanation on Non-Selection
According to the board official, Shami was contacted multiple times by national selectors and support staff to assess his readiness. The plan was for him to play for India A in England to gain match practice before being considered for the senior team’s Test series.
“The narrative that there was no communication with Shami isn’t accurate,” the official said. “Selectors checked on his fitness and wanted him to get some practice in English conditions, but he was unavailable for the India A assignment.”
The BCCI’s medical team continues to monitor Shami’s fitness reports, and future selection will depend on his physical readiness. “His ability is unquestioned, but workload and recovery need careful management,” the source added.
Shami’s Perspective
Shami had earlier expressed frustration over being overlooked, stating, “Selection is not in my hands. If there was a fitness issue, I wouldn’t be playing domestic cricket for Bengal. If I can play four day games, I can also play 50 over matches.”
The statements from both Shami and the BCCI indicate that while communication occurred, the veteran pacer opted out of the India A fixtures. This episode underscores the importance of fitness management and transparent communication in modern cricket. Shami’s decision to follow the board’s recommended path could determine his return to the national side.