Although Mohammed Shami absence has been attributed in a number of stories to a breakdown in communication between him and the selectors, BCCI sources indicate that the truth is more complex. The board is reportedly keeping a careful eye on his workload and recuperation, suggesting that fitness evaluations and the team’s changing approach in front of upcoming series may have a significant impact on his return to the national setup.
After missing all of the national team’s games since the Champions Trophy in March, Indian veteran bowler Mohammed Shami has suddenly become the focus of a selection dispute. His chances of returning to the Indian team, especially in Tests and T20Is, appear to have decreased despite his active participation in the current Ranji Trophy.
Before sustaining a serious heel injury in 2023 that necessitated surgery and a protracted recuperation period, the Bengal pacer last played for India. Selectors are concerned about his fitness and capacity to handle the demands of international cricket, particularly in the longer formats, given his age and injury history, which includes a knee operation over ten years ago.
“National selectors and support personnel from the BCCI Centre of Excellence have phoned Mohammed Shami on several occasions to inquire about her health.
According to a top board official cited by the Hindustan Times, “the selection committee was desperate to get his services in England because Jasprit Bumrah could not have played more than three Tests.”
This was further supported by correspondence from a top selection panel member who had contacted Mohammed Shami on several occasions to encourage him to play in the India A series against the England Lions in England. In preparation for the five-Test series, the selectors saw these games as the perfect opportunity to evaluate Shami’s red-ball fitness.
Shami allegedly turned down the offer, stating that he needed more time to increase his workload and get ready for the game. Additionally, he expressed his preference for a gradual recuperation process over an early return to competitive activity, stating that he did not want to be considered for the assignment at that time.
“So the narrative that there was no communication with Shami isn’t an absolute truth,” added the official.
The right-arm fast bowler has started the Ranji Trophy season well for Bengal and is becoming a vital member of his team. He has already taken 15 wickets in the first two games, and he was crucial to Bengal’s wins over Gujarat and Uttarakhand. It’s unclear if Shami will return to international cricket despite his stellar local play.
Although his prospects of being selected currently seem minimal, he may have another chance to don the Indian colors in the forthcoming ODI and T20I series against South Africa.
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