Mohammed Shami’s exclusion from India’s squad for the forthcoming ODI series against New Zealand has been discussed by former Indian bowler R Ashwin. On January 3, the Board of Control for Cricket in India revealed the Men in Blue’s team for the ODI series.
According to Ashwin, the selectors must not have been sure that Shami would maintain his bowling form and attributes through the 2027 World Cup. He also mentioned how a batter’s workload is different from that of a quick bowler.
“Shami’s absence was anticipated. That is not surprising.
The difference between Virat, Rohit, and Shami is that they were still playing Tests or T20s when ODIs weren’t happening. Shami was injured and had to leave. If you compare a bowler’s run-up, speed, and rhythm to what you’ve seen in international cricket, Shami’s case is one of optics. Do the selectors think he can make it to the World Cup in 2027? A batter’s and a fast bowler’s workloads are very different,” Ashwin said in a video posted on his YouTube page.
The former cricket player who is now an analyst also believes that Mohammed Siraj’s addition to the team is a positive move. He believed that Siraj’s background will help him complement Jasprit Bumrah and other performers at the 2027 major event.
It was well worth Siraj’s return. India is aware that experience is necessary for the 2027 World Cup. Yes, Prasidh, Harshit, and Arshdeep are present. However, we can’t take all three of them at once. We have Siraj’s experience with Bumrah, who we need. “I think it’s a good decision, and I’m very happy for him,” he continued.
Shami is currently competing in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Bengal in 2025–2026. In five games, he claimed 11 wickets at an economy rate of 5.65 and an average of 22.27. Since the Champions Trophy final in March 2025, he has not represented India on the pitch.
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