'Selection not in my hands': Mohammed Shami on Australia series
What's the story
Star pacer Mohammed Shami continues his bid for a national comeback. He was recently left out of the national squad for the upcoming tour of Australia. The 35-year-old seamer last played in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy after recovering from his back surgery. He also played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and domestic cricket for Bengal. Addressing his exclusion on his YouTube channel, Shami clarified that there are no fitness issues and he is actively practicing.
Clarification
My fitness is also good, says Shami
Responding to the rumors surrounding his exclusion from the Australia series, Shami said, "I will just say that getting selected is not in my hands; it's the job of the selection committee, coach, and captain." He added that if they think he should be there or need more time, it's their decision. The pacer also assured fans about his fitness by saying, "My fitness is also good."
Appearance
Shami last featured in Duleep Trophy
Shami had a successful return to competitive cricket last year. He took nine wickets from five games at 25.89, including a fifer against Bangladesh. Shami, who was ruled unfit for the entire England tour, had a modest return in the Duleep Trophy. Playing for East Zone in Bengaluru, he managed a match haul of 1/136 from 34 overs. He played the Champions Trophy this year but wasn't considered for the England and Australia tours.
Information
Disappointing season for Shami
Shami had a disappointing IPL 2025 season with Sunrisers Hyderabad, taking six wickets from nine matches. He was also excluded from the squads for the T20 Asia Cup 2025 and the West Indies Test series.
Uncertain future
What next for Shami?
In a positive development, Shami has been named in Bengal's squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy. His international future remains uncertain for now. His best bet seems to be performing well in domestic cricket and the IPL. This could give the selectors enough confidence to bring him back into the Indian team. The pacer last played for India in the Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand in March, where he took one wicket.