Mohammed Shami Overlooked by BCCI Despite Stellar Form

Mohammed Shami, the experienced Indian fast bowler, has taken 15 wickets in his first three Ranji Trophy 2025/26 games. Despite this remarkable performance, Shami was not selected by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for the upcoming India squad to face South Africa.

Coach Criticizes Selection Committee

Shami’s personal coach, Mohammed Badruddin, expressed his frustration, alleging that the BCCI has pre-decided to overlook Shami. Badruddin dismissed claims regarding fitness as mere excuses, stating that Shami’s form and performance clearly demonstrate his readiness.

“They are ignoring him, that’s clear. He’s not unfit — when a player is playing Test matches and taking 15 wickets in two games, he doesn’t look unfit. The selectors are just overlooking him,” Badruddin said.

Concerns Over Selection Criteria

Badruddin criticized the current selection methodology, suggesting that Test squad selections appear to be influenced by T20 metrics rather than domestic performances in the Ranji Trophy. He called the rationale behind Shami’s omission “completely wrong” and “pre-decided.”

Past Performances Highlight Shami’s Value

Shami last played for India on March 9, 2025, in the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand, where he was the joint second-highest wicket-taker with nine wickets in five matches. Despite these accomplishments, he was excluded from both the India A and senior squads for the South Africa series.

Coach Confident in Shami’s Comeback

Although frustrated by the snub, Shami’s coach remains confident in his eventual return to the Indian team. Badruddin emphasized that Shami’s talent and track record, including contributions in World Cups, make him deserving of a recall.

“Of course, he can return. I’m fully confident he will, and when he does, he’ll make such a comeback that will silence everyone,” Badruddin said.

Shami may also be part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction after a modest IPL 2025 season with Sunrisers Hyderabad, giving him another platform to prove his form.