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India‘s chief selector Ajit Agarkar has finally responded to the controversy surrounding pacer Mohammed Shami‘s absence from the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia, insisting Shami would have been included if he were fully fit. Shami, who has been vocal about his snub, criticized the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for allegedly overlooking his fitness, citing his active participation in Bengal’s domestic Ranji Trophy as proof of his readiness. Agarkar’s comments, delivered during the NDTV World Summit, shed light on the ongoing fitness debate and the communication dynamics between the player and selectors ahead of the crucial series that kicks off on October 19.
Ajit Agarkar opens up Mohammed Shami’s fitness concerns and selection
Reacting to Shami’s claims, Agarkar emphasized that the seasoned fast bowler has been in touch with the selection panel in recent months but was not deemed fit enough to make the squad. “If he was fit, he would have been on the plane,” Agarkar firmly stated, adding that discussions have taken place multiple times.
Agarkar also remarked that while he hasn’t extensively engaged with Shami’s recent social media comments, he remains open for dialogue and would consider a conversation to clear any misunderstandings. The chief selector further acknowledged Shami’s contributions to Indian cricket, underscoring his value to the team, particularly recalling Shami’s performance in India’s Champions Trophy triumph where he was the joint top wicket-taker along with Varun Chakravarthy.
Shami, 35, has been battling recurring ankle and knee injuries since the 2023 World Cup, which necessitated surgery and subsequently affected his ability to consistently represent India in the longest format. He last featured in the Test side during the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia but has since been focusing on rehabilitation and domestic cricket.
Shami’s recent comments suggested frustration with the selectors not updating him about his status, stating, “It is not my job to update the selection panel on my fitness.” However, Agarkar clarified that the selectors have been proactive in their communication and that Shami’s fitness remains the key factor in team selection.
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India’s upcoming Australia tour and significance of squad selection
India are gearing up for a high-profile white-ball series in Australia comprising three ODIs and five T20Is, starting October 19. The tour marks the return of iconic Indian players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, both making their international comebacks after the 2025 Champions Trophy final in March. Shubman Gill leads the ODI squad as the new captain, with Shreyas Iyer serving as vice-captain, signalling a blend of youth and experience.
The selectors face the challenge of balancing player fitness with team composition ahead of the series. While Shami’s omission continues to fuel debate among fans and cricketing experts, the board’s cautious approach highlights their preference for fully fit players who can endure the rigours of international cricket abroad. The domestic season in India has just resumed, indicating Shami’s active attempts at regaining form and fitness. His ongoing performances for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy and his involvement in other domestic tournaments stand testament to his intent to return to the international fold.
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