Mohammed Shami has been overlooked across all formats recently, and selectors have questioned his form and fitness. The fast bowler last played for India in the 2025 Champions Trophy, where he took nine wickets, including a five-wicket haul. Despite this, he remains out of Team India. Perhaps he is focusing on the next generation.

Coach expressed his displeasure as BCCI again ignored the pacer

Shami’s coach, Badruddin Siddiqui, has expressed his displeasure and reacted strongly to this. Mohammed Shami has been performing brilliantly in domestic cricket, yet he was not selected for the ODI series against New Zealand. Over the past three months, he has been one of the country’s best fast bowlers in domestic cricket.

In four Ranji Trophy matches, he bowled an average of 20 overs per innings and took 20 wickets at an average of 18.60. He also took 16 wickets in seven Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy matches. In five Vijay Hazare Trophy matches, he took 11 wickets at an average of 22.50. Speaking to The Indian Express,

Mohammed Shami’s coach, Badruddin Siddiqui, expressed his regret over Shami’s omission from the team, saying, “He already has the skills, wickets, fitness, and form. What more does he need to prove? I just don’t understand why.” Badruddin said that Shami has taken a different path. He is different from many players who are in the team, play one or two domestic matches, prove their fitness, and then immediately return to the team.

The coach predicted Shami’s imminent return, saying, “He’s in very good shape and bowling in very good rhythm. When he gets into rhythm, when he runs smoothly, everything falls into place. If he continues to bowl like this, I’m sure it will be difficult for the selectors to ignore him.”

Shami’s omission also indicates that the Indian team is keen to develop the next generation of fast bowlers in both the 50-over format and Test cricket. Recently, the selectors have been focusing on developing and investing in young fast bowlers.