Mohammed Shami's exclusion from India squad sparks debate

The continued absence of fast bowler Mohammed Shami from India’s squads for the upcoming tour of New Zealand has led to calls for greater transparency from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors.

While selectors have maintained that Shami is not physically fit enough for international duty, Bengal coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla clarified that Shami was fit but requested to be rested for a recent Ranji Trophy match against Services. Shukla noted that Shami had bowled significant overs in the previous round and that resting him allowed the team to test new players.

Former batter Mohammad Kaif has questioned the lack of clarity regarding Shami’s status, pointing to his strong performance in domestic cricket and his role as the leading wicket-taker in the 2023 ODI World Cup. Shami last represented India in the 2025 Champions Trophy.