Kolkata: India pacer Mohammed Shami has expressed disappointment after being overlooked for the upcoming Australia tour, saying there has been “no communication” from the selectors regarding his exclusion. The 35-year-old, currently representing Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, insisted that if he is fit to play domestic cricket, he is fit enough for international duty.

Shami questions lack of communication

In a recent interaction, Shami admitted that he was hurt by the lack of clarity from the selection committee. The senior pacer, who has been a consistent performer for India across formats, said he had not been informed about the reasons for his non-selection.

“If I am fit to play Ranji Trophy, why am I not considered fit for international matches? There has been no conversation from the selectors. As a player, that’s disappointing,” Shami reportedly told close associates after the team announcement.

His omission from the Test squad for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 in England and the upcoming Australia tour raised eyebrows, given his impressive record and recent performances in domestic cricket.

Agarkar cites fitness concerns

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar responded to media queries, stating that Shami’s fitness has been a concern for the selection panel. Speaking at the NDTV World Summit 2025, Agarkar said, “If he was fit, he would have been part of the squad for the England series. Unfortunately, he wasn’t. We’ve had multiple conversations with him over the last few months.”

He added that he was unaware of Shami’s latest remarks but promised to reach out to the veteran pacer. “Maybe if I read what he said, I might give him a call. My phone is always on for all players. Shami has been an incredible performer for India, and I value his contributions,” Agarkar said.

The chairman of selectors also clarified that the decision was purely based on medical and workload assessments and not on form or experience.

RP Singh holds talks with Shami in Kolkata

Amid the ongoing debate, newly appointed selector RP Singh met Shami in person at Eden Gardens, where Bengal are facing Gujarat in a Ranji Trophy match. According to Sportskeeda, the two had a “lengthy discussion” after the day’s play on October 26.

“Newly-appointed selector RP Singh is at Eden Gardens for the Bengal vs Gujarat clash. The World T20 winner spoke to Shami at length after the day’s play today,” the report said.

The meeting is being viewed as an attempt by the selection committee to bridge communication gaps and understand Shami’s perspective directly.

Shami’s strong domestic form

Despite the controversy, Shami has let his bowling do the talking. The pacer has been in fine rhythm during the ongoing Ranji Trophy season. Against Uttarakhand, he claimed seven wickets in Bengal’s eight-wicket win at home. In the ongoing match against Gujarat, he took three wickets, including two crucial strikes with the new ball.

His consistent performances have reminded many of his international calibre. Bengal coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla praised the senior bowler’s professionalism, saying, “Shami has been a great influence on our younger players. His intensity in domestic games shows his commitment to the sport.”

Agarkar’s assurance and team management’s stance

Sources within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) indicated that Agarkar and the team management are open to recalling Shami once he passes all fitness assessments. With several key tournaments lined up, including the 2026 T20 World Cup, Shami remains in contention if he maintains his fitness levels.

Agarkar reiterated, “There’s no issue with Shami’s skill or performance. Fitness is the only concern, and once that’s cleared, he will be considered for selection.”

Looking ahead

For now, Shami is expected to continue playing domestic cricket to prove his readiness for international return. The experienced pacer has already made a strong case with his recent spells and remains optimistic about a comeback.

With selectors like RP Singh engaging directly and Agarkar promising communication, the situation may soon improve. For Indian cricket, the goal remains clear — to have their best fast bowlers fully fit and ready ahead of a crucial season.