Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra believes Mohammed Shami is no longer in the selectors’ plans. Shami last played for the Men in Blue in March 2025. Chopra’s comments came after Shami was not named to India’s side for the forthcoming series against New Zealand.
Aakash Chopra stated that the BCCI had moved on from Shami and that there had been little to no discussion among the selectors over the right-arm bowler.
“Someone has asked a question as to what would happen to Mohammed Shami. I would only say that it’s been decided that they are not considering Mohammed Shami now. There is no conversation or communication. Nothing is happening. That is over,” shared Chopra in a video on his YouTube channel.
The cricketer-turned-commentator suggested that Shami might yet return to the national squad if he becomes a big wicket-taker for Lucknow Super Giants in the next Indian Premier League.
“However, since he is playing the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and the Ranji Trophy, and will also play the Indian Premier League for Lucknow, if he has a good season and sets the stage on fire and comes close to the Purple Cap, I can give you in writing that no one can stop him. He will 100% come close to the team because that’s Mohammed Shami,” he added.
In 2025-26 Vijay Hazare Trophy, Mohammed Shami is currently playing for Bengal. As on January 5, he picked up 14 wickets in six games at an economy of 5.90. He played in the 2025 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy also.
Shami’s fitness has been an issue for the selectors over the years. This is also what cost the 35-year-old an appearance in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, among other series.
