Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami’s hopes of returning to the national setup have suffered another setback, with the 35-year-old once again omitted from India’s squad for the upcoming white-ball series against Australia. The tour, which begins on October 19, includes three ODIs followed by five T20 Internationals.
While Shami has publicly expressed his desire to don the India jersey again, the BCCI remains hesitant to consider him for future assignments, reportedly due to concerns over both age and recent form. The experienced seamer was also left out of the Asia Cup earlier this year and endured a difficult outing in the Duleep Trophy, where he managed just one wicket for 136 runs in 34 overs while representing East Zone in Bengaluru.
According to reports, the Duleep Trophy performance raised doubts about Shami’s current readiness for international cricket. “At this moment, it’s getting increasingly tougher for Shami to return to the Indian team. In the Duleep game too, he wasn’t too impressive, barring one odd spell,” a BCCI official said. “Besides, he isn’t getting any younger, while pace-wise, too, he didn’t seem to be at his best in Duleep. But to continue in the IPL, he has to play a decent amount of domestic games.”
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar, when asked about Shami during the squad announcement, offered little clarity, simply stating that there was “no update” on the bowler’s status.
Despite his omission, Shami remains determined to fight his way back into contention. He has declared his availability for Bengal’s Ranji Trophy campaign, which begins on October 15 against Uttarakhand at Eden Gardens. His inclusion will be decided by the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), which is expected to finalise its squad in a meeting on Tuesday.
Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla confirmed that discussions with Shami have already taken place. “I had spoken to Shami six-seven days back, and he had expressed his desire to play. So, on our front, we’re optimistic as far as his availability (in the Ranji opener) is concerned,” Shukla said.
Earlier in the year, Shami had shown glimpses of his enduring quality during the Champions Trophy, taking nine wickets in five games — the most by an Indian bowler in the tournament — at an average of 25.89. However, selectors appear unconvinced that he can maintain the same intensity over longer spells or across multiple formats.
Still, Shami remains hopeful of returning to the international fold and has even spoken of his ambition to feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup. For now, though, the veteran pacer must turn his attention to domestic cricket — his performances there could determine whether his storied career gains a second wind or quietly winds down at home.
