Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami recently voiced his disappointment with national selectors following his exclusion from the white-ball squad for the Australia tour. Emphasizing his fitness, proven by his participation in the Ranji Trophy for Bengal, Shami asserted that it is not his responsibility to update the selection committee on his physical condition. The 35-year-old fast bowler has faced recurrent ankle and knee issues, requiring surgery after his stellar performance in the 2023 World Cup, where he was India`s leading wicket-taker. His last Test appearance was in the World Test Championship final in June 2023.
Shami on Selection and Fitness
“I`ve stated this before: selection decisions are beyond my control,” Shami told reporters on the eve of Bengal`s Ranji opener. “If fitness were an issue, I wouldn`t be playing for Bengal right now.” He dismissed the idea of creating controversy, adding, “If I`m capable of playing four-day cricket (Ranji Trophy), then 50-over cricket is certainly within my capabilities.”
Regarding updates on his fitness, Shami was direct: “It`s not my role to provide updates or request them. My job is to attend the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for preparation and then play matches. Who updates them, or who doesn`t, is their concern. It`s not my responsibility,” he clarified, implying that fitness certificates are typically issued by the NCA.
Past Performance and Current Readiness
Shami was instrumental in India`s journey to the 2023 World Cup final, bagging 24 wickets in just seven matches. Despite suffering a heel injury that necessitated Achilles tendon surgery, and being overlooked for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy due to knee soreness, he made a remarkable comeback, playing a crucial role in India`s Champions Trophy triumph earlier this year. Having completed his surgery and rehabilitation, Shami confirmed his match readiness after returning to competitive cricket in the Duleep Trophy for East Zone.
Perspective on Team Selection and Domestic Cricket
While the Indian team undergoes a transition, Shami maintains a hopeful yet pragmatic outlook. “My consistent belief is that the best players should be chosen for the nation. It`s about our country winning, and we should all be happy with that,” he affirmed. “Keep striving, keep playing. Good performances will always benefit you. If I`m not selected, I`ll gladly play for Bengal; I have no qualms about it.”
He also acknowledged that consistent top performance is challenging in cricket. “I don`t wish to play in pain or hinder the team. My aim was to return stronger after the operation, and I`m working towards that. I am ready to play whenever the selectors require me,” stated the experienced pacer, who has represented India in 64 Tests, 108 ODIs, and 25 T20Is.
Shami continues to place high value on domestic cricket, viewing it as a fundamental test for any player. “In the past, the Ranji Trophy was a significant platform. Today, some might consider it an `insult` to return to first-class cricket like Ranji, but I disagree. Four-day cricket is essential,” he emphasized. He concluded, “If playing well in the Ranji Trophy is a condition for national selection, then there`s absolutely nothing wrong with that. One should definitely perform.”
