Shami’s response on not being picked for Australia ODIs, says If I can play Ranji Trophy, I can play 50-overs.
Shami’s response to India not selecting him for their white-ball series against Australia in October.
On the eve of Bengal’s opening match in the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy, Mohammed Shami denied any concerns regarding his fitness, stating that he wouldn’t be participating in four-day cricket if he wasn’t feeling well.
In March of 2025, Shami made his final appearance for India at the Champions Trophy. Since then, the team has won the Asia Cup T20Is, swept the West Indies 2-0 to start the new home season, and toured England for Test matches. His exclusion from India’s upcoming assignment, a white-ball tour of Australia beginning later this month, prompted the reaction.
Shami said, “if I can play four-dayers [Ranji Trophy], I can also play 50-overs cricket.”
“Selection is not in my hands. If there is a fitness issue, I shouldn’t be here playing for Bengal,” the fast bowler was quoted as saying by PTI on Tuesday. “I think I do not need to speak on this and create a controversy. If I can play four-dayers [Ranji Trophy], I can also play 50-overs cricket.”
“About giving an update, it’s not my responsibility to give an update or ask for an update,” he said. “It’s not my job to give updates on my fitness. My job is to go to the NCA [Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, formerly National Cricket Academy], prepare and play matches. That’s their matter who gives them updates or not. It’s not my responsibility.”
Shami’s absence from Test cricket (his last appearance was in June 2023) was explained by India’s chief of selectors, Ajit Agarkar, who stated that he hadn’t participated in many first-class matches in the previous two to three years. Therefore, we are aware of his abilities as a performer. However, he will have to perform,” Agarkar stated.
Since making his debut in 2013, Shami has played in 197 games across all formats as a consistent member of the Indian squad. He is still hoping to play for the nation again after playing a key part in their run to the ODI World Cup final two years ago.
“Keep fighting, keep playing games. If you perform well, it will benefit you as well,” Shami said. “Selection is not in my hands. I can only prepare and play matches. I’ve no objection… If you don’t select me, then I will come here and play for Bengal. I’ve no issue with it.
“I also don’t want to play in pain or make the [Indian] team suffer. I wanted to come back after the operation and make a strong comeback. I am trying to do the same. I am ready to go whenever they [selectors] want me to go.”