boycott of Mohammed Shami From the Indian team for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand This has drawn sharp criticism, with the veteran fast bowler’s childhood coach openly questioning the decision-making of the selectors. The three-match series begins on January 11, but Shami’s name was notably missing from the 15-member squad announced on Saturday.
35-year-old Shami was highly expected to return to the ODI setup after his stellar performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier 50-over domestic competition. Therefore, his omission is a big surprise for fans and former players.
Mohammed Shami’s childhood coach questions Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel
Shami’s childhood coach reacted strongly to this insult Badruddin Siddiqui He expressed disappointment over the lack of clarity and fairness in the selection process overseen by Ajit Agarkar, who currently heads the national selection committee.
“What more can a player do? How many more wickets should a player take?” The coach told India Today, expressing his disbelief at the decision. His comments reflect widespread concern among Shami’s supporters, who believe the fast bowler has done everything possible at the domestic level to make a comeback.
The coach further suggested that Shami’s exclusion could signal a worrying change in the selectors’ plans, hinting that the door to India’s ODI team could be closed for the experienced fast bowler.
Shami’s brilliant performance in Vijay Hazare Trophy was ignored by the selectors
Shami’s figures in the Vijay Hazare Trophy underline why questions are being raised over his omissions. Representing Bengal, he has taken 11 wickets in just five matches and has consistently troubled the batsmen with pace, seam movement and accuracy. His performance was seen as a clear statement of intent, especially after suffering an injury at the start of the year.
Despite this, Shami did not find a place in the Shubman Gill-led ODI team, leading many to question whether domestic performance was still being given importance in selection decisions.
Shami’s coach did not hide his concern that this humiliation could effectively mark the end of the fast bowler’s ODI journey. “It means they don’t want him in the ODI team. He has a lot to offer.” He stressed that Shami’s experience and skills are valuable assets.
The potential sidelining of Shami, who has played a key role in India’s white-ball success over the years, raises questions about how the team plans to transition from experienced campaigners to young talent, especially with major tournaments on the horizon.
Also read: Shreyas Iyer in, Ruturaj Gaikwad out, BCCI announces Indian team for New Zealand ODI
India’s fast attack will continue without Shami
The decision to drop Shami becomes even bigger because of this. Jasprit Bumrah Rest has also been given for New Zealand ODI. India’s pace attack will be led in his absence Mohammad SirajKrishna famous with youth, Arshdeep Singh And Harshit Rana.
All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been named as the fifth seam option, highlighting the selectors’ preference for a younger, more flexible pace unit.
Also read: 7 Indian players who played in T20 World Cup 2024 but will not play in the 2026 edition
