India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed the recent controversy surrounding Mohammed Shami’s non-selection within the Indian squad, clarifying that the senior pacer was omitted purely as a result of fitness concerns. His response got here after Shami publicly expressed frustration, suggesting that his readiness to play for Bengal indicated that he was fit and being unfairly neglected.
Speaking on the NDTV World Summit 2025, Agarkar stated firmly, “If Mohammed Shami was fit, he could be within the team.” He emphasized that the choice committee had no reservations about Shami’s skill or value to the squad, but his physical condition on the time didn’t meet the team’s requirements.
Agarkar explained that the selectors had long admired Shami’s contribution to Indian cricket and had even discussed his potential inclusion for recent series. Nevertheless, repeated injuries and rehabilitation delays prevented his participation. “We have now had conversations with Shami,” Agarkar revealed, adding that selectors were “keen to have him back, but his fitness needs to be assessed fastidiously.”
The chief selector also reminded that fitness is a non-negotiable criterion in modern cricket, no matter a player’s stature. Even senior cricketers must undergo medical clearance and fitness assessments before being considered for national duty. He acknowledged Shami’s strong performances previously but maintained that a half-fit player could risk each personal form and team balance.
Earlier, Shami had shared his disappointment, saying that his recovery process had been transparent and that he was able to return to competitive cricket. The veteran pacer hinted that communication gaps may need influenced his exclusion. Nevertheless, Agarkar dismissed any such misunderstandings, reaffirming that the choice was purely medical and performance-related. “Nobody doubts Shami’s ability. He has been certainly one of our greatest fast bowlers. But at once, fitness is the deciding factor,” Agarkar said.
The chief selector concluded on a hopeful note, indicating that when Shami proves his fitness through domestic matches and reports from the National Cricket Academy (NCA), the doors remain open for his comeback. He remarked, “All of us want Shami back within the side. It’s nearly him being fully ready.”
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