Mohammed Shami has pushed back against chief selector Ajit Agarkar’s claims that fitness issues kept him out of the Indian squad for the upcoming white-ball series in Australia. The veteran pacer said he feels fully fit and ready to play and termed the concerns as ‘unfounded’.
In a YouTube video, Shami said that he has bowled comfortably for long periods during the Duleep Trophy and his body feels in a good rhythm.
“My fitness is also good. I will try to do better because when you are not on the ground, you have to stay motivated. I played in the Duleep Trophy. I felt very comfortable, my rhythm was good and I bowled around 35 overs. There are no problems with my fitness,” Shami said in the video.
Agarkar had earlier suggested that Shami needed more match time before returning to international cricket, citing a lack of recent matches. The 34-year-old last represented India in the 2025 Champions Trophy and played for East Zone in the Duleep Trophy soon after.
“I don’t have any update. I don’t think he has played much cricket in the last two-three years. I think he has played one match for Bengal and one for the Duleep Trophy. So as an artiste, we know what he can do but he will have to play some cricket,” Agarkar had noted.
Shami’s IPL 2025 season with Sunrisers Hyderabad was below expectations, where he took just six wickets in nine matches and struggled with consistency. However, he was one of India’s heroes at the 2023 World Cup, finishing as the leading wicket-taker and playing a crucial role in the team’s run to the final.
After a long injury break due to an ankle problem, Shami’s fitness and form are coming under scrutiny. Still, his excursions around the house suggest he is gradually regaining his rhythm.
This exchange between the senior bowler and the selectors highlights the delicate balance between experience and form in Indian cricket. As the selection debates continue, fans will be keeping a close eye on whether Shami’s performances in domestic cricket could earn him a national recall soon.
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