Mohammad Shami has expressed disappointment at being left out of India’s squad for the upcoming tour of Australia, as uncertainty grows around the experienced pacer’s future in the national side.
The 35-year-old, who has not featured for India in recent months, was not selected for the tour, prompting speculation in Indian media. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar did not provide a clear reason for Shami’s omission, saying he had no update on the bowler’s fitness and did not know whether he was currently injured.
Shami has responded to those comments, stating that the responsibility to communicate updates does not rest solely with him. “It is not just my duty to provide updates or ask questions. My role is to go to the NCA, train and play matches. Where he chooses to get information from is his matter, not mine,” said Shami.
He also voiced his frustration at being left out of the squad despite being fit. “I have said before that it is the selectors who decide who plays. But if there were fitness issues, I would not have played in the Ranji Trophy. If I can play a four-day match, I can play ODIs too,” he added.
Shami, who has recovered from ankle and knee injuries, has been actively involved in domestic cricket. He last represented India during the Champions Trophy and has since played in the IPL and Duleep Trophy. “After my injuries, I have played some matches, including the Champions Trophy, IPL and Duleep Trophy. I am still training regularly, so it is wrong to say that I am out of form,” he said.
A standout performer in the 2023 ODI World Cup, Shami reflected on the challenges of maintaining consistency. “You cannot perform the same way every day. I performed well in the World Cup, but then picked up an injury. I chose not to play through pain as that could have harmed the team. Now I am working to get back to my best,” he said.
Eager to return to international cricket, Shami remains focused on continuing his career with Bengal. “My job is to keep training and playing. If I perform well, opportunities will come. If I am not selected, that is fine, I will keep playing for Bengal,” he concluded.
