Mohammed Shami is absent from India’s ODI squad

Mohammed Shami’s controversial exclusion from India’s upcoming ODI series against New Zealand has sparked intense backlash from his inner circle. Despite a stellar domestic season, selectors favored younger pacers like Siraj and Arshdeep Singh, leaving the veteran out. Shami’s personal coach slammed the decision, questioning what more the bowler must prove after claiming 47 wickets across 16 matches in the Ranji, Syed Mushtaq Ali, and Vijay Hazare tournaments.

He fears the team management has prematurely decided to move past Shami. Bengal coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla echoed these sentiments, labeling the snub unjust given Shami’s rare dedication to domestic cricket for an established international star. His recent form, including 11 wickets in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, highlights his readiness. However, the selection committee remains committed to developing a youthful pace attack, forcing Shami to continue proving his worth on the domestic circuit while waiting and hoping for a future international recall.