Ajit Agarkar, chairman of India’s men’s selection committee, confirmed that fast bowler Mohammed Shami was not picked for India’s tour of England due to fitness concerns. Speaking at the NDTV World Summit 2025, Agarkar clarified that Shami still remains in contention for future selections — provided he proves his fitness.
Shami had recently voiced frustration about being overlooked despite performing in domestic cricket, including the Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy. Currently representing Bengal in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2025–26 season, Shami took three wickets against Uttarakhand in the first innings but went wicketless in the second.
“Selection isn’t in my hands. If I wasn’t fit, I wouldn’t be playing for Bengal,” Shami told PTI, implying he was match-ready for international cricket.
Responding to that, Agarkar said he had been in touch with Shami multiple times over recent months and that the selectors had planned to include him for the England series if he was fully fit. “We were desperate to have him for the Australia Tests too, but his fitness wasn’t up to the mark then,” Agarkar added.
He further mentioned that the selection panel would continue monitoring Shami’s progress during the domestic season. “If he stays fit and bowls well over the next few months, the situation could change. A player of Shami’s caliber is always an asset for India,” he said.
