Mohammed Shami has put these fitness discussions to bed. After being asked multiple times why he was not selected for the Australia tour, the veteran pacer opted to share his feelings. He clarified that he is completely fit and ready to go, and there are no fitness issues with his body.
What Mohammed Shami Actually Said?
The 35-year-old fast bowler took to his YouTube channel to put all of the speculation to rest. He indicated that selection for the national duty is out of his hands. Selection comes from the selectors, coach and the captain.
Here’s what matters most about his statement :
- He is ready and keeps working on his skills every day
- His body feels good and there are no health concerns
- He bowled around 35 overs in the Duleep Trophy and felt comfortable
- His bowling rhythm is back to where it should be
Mohammed Shami made it clear he will keep trying to get better because staying sharp when you’re away from the team takes real effort.
The Background Story
Shami last represented India in the Champions Trophy tournament earlier this year. Following the end of that tournament, he has not had the opportunity to participate in international cricket, while he has continued to participate in active cricket. He participated in the IPL season, and more recently for Bengal in fewer than a handful of matches.
The fast bowler faced an ankle issue back in 2023 which ruled him out of cricket for greater than a year. He had worked hard to come back from a hard rehabilitation over a period of almost 14 months, even undergoing surgery in February 2024. However, he says that this is behind him and wants to move on.
What The Selectors Think?
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar did not feel the same when responding to reporters about Mohammed Shami. The chief selector indicated that the fast bowler has not participated much in international or state cricket in recent years. He (the chief selector) said the bowler has participated one match for Bengal state cricket and one match in the Duleep Trophy in the last few weeks.
This creates an engaging difference because the chief selectors’ perceptions do not match the fast bowlers opinions of himself. The chief selector believes time is all Shami needs, while Mohammed Shami believes he is already fit enough.
Where Khelofun Fans Stand
Cricket followers on Khelofun are enjoying following this whole thing very closely. Many feel there is more to the story than just fitness issues. Some fans have even said that the lengthy break from international competition is causing him difficulty in returning to his pre-break form.
The fact is that Shami’s IPL 2025 performance was unimpressive, and his numbers were low for what we expect. He only took 6 wickets in 9 contests and was expensive with his economy rates. These performances caused observers to wonder whether Mohammed Shami was able to perform at his full fitness level.
What Happens Next
Mohammed Shami will now focus on performing for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy. This gives him a chance to show everyone what he can still do. He will be leading the bowling attack which also has other talented bowlers.
The fast bowler knows he needs to stay sharp and keep pushing himself. Being away from international cricket is not easy but he says staying motivated is key. He contested in the Duleep Trophy where he felt his rhythm was solid and everything clicked.
For cricket lovers following all this on this platform, the big question remains whether selectors will change their minds. Mohammed Shami has done everything asked of him so far. He came back from a serious injury, participated in domestic matches, and says he feels ready.
The Bigger Picture
This entire episode demonstrates how challenging it is for athletes who are trying to resume their careers after lengthy injury spells. Shami experienced a lot on the road to recovery, including questioning whether he would participate at all again. But Mohammed Shami stared hard work and commitment in the face and managed to make a way back.
The ball is really in the selection committee’s court at this point. They have to either elect to give him another opportunity with the team or suspend action for more clarity on Shami’s current form. Shami has obviously stated his position – he is fit, is available, and is waiting for an invitation.
The pacer also remarked, as a fast bowler, one has to accept the reality of injury being a part of the job. The mental struggle of recovering from a 14-month injury run was arduous enough; it was another barrier just simply to reconnect in his own mind, to put at all behind him, and move forward. He began participating in cricket in the domestic circuit to regain his sense of confidence which, understandably, made him feel tick.
Regardless of whether Shami even gets selected or not, one thing seems quite clear – he is not rolling over or submitting without a fight. His most recent public comments indicate he still believes he can participate near the same level and holds on to his confidence. The next few weeks will truly determine whether or not the selectors feel the same way too.
