Has Mohammed Shami played his last game for Team India?
What's the story
Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has weighed in on the future of fast bowler Mohammed Shami after his exclusion from India's white-ball squads for the upcoming series against Australia. Gavaskar thinks that the management and selectors have decided to move on from Shami, who has been plagued by injuries since the 2023 ODI World Cup. Despite regaining fitness after a year-long struggle, the 35-year-old Shami hasn't been able to perform at his best.
Injury impact
Injuries have taken a toll on Shami
"In Mohammed Shami's case, it'll be a real uphill climb for him. It's going to be very, very tough," Gavaskar told India Today. He added that the injuries Shami has suffered are not easy to recover from for a fast bowler. Gavaskar also praised Shami's contributions to Indian cricket over the years. Notably, Shami last played for India in the Champions Trophy earlier this year.
Career trajectory
Shami's poor form and lack of fitness
Shami had a disappointing IPL 2025 season with Sunrisers Hyderabad, followed by being left out of the England tour. He was also excluded from the squads for the T20 Asia Cup 2025 and West Indies Test series. His performance in the Duleep Trophy was also below par, where he managed only one wicket in 34 overs for East Zone.
Selection changes
Selectors focus on long-term strategy for 2027 World Cup
India's selection committee has made some major changes to the ODI squad for the upcoming Australia tour. Shami and Ravindra Jadeja have been left out, making way for Prasidh Krishna and Washington Sundar. The decision reflects a long-term strategy focusing on the 2027 World Cup. The selectors are looking to build a core team over time, with Shami's exclusion being part of this vision.
Career
A look at his career
Shami made his international debut for India in 2013 and has since become a key member of the national team across formats. He has played 64 ODIs, taking 116 wickets at an average of 25.71. He has also picked 229 Test wickets in 64 matches for Team India at an average of 27.71 runs per wicket (5W: 6). In T2 27 wickets at an average of 28.18