Mohammed Shami has also reacted violently to the comments of chief selector Ajit Agarkar regarding his fitness and declared that he is fully fit and he is willing to play in the Indian team. The senior fast bowler who has never featured in the ODI and T20I squads in the next Australia tour claimed that he had demonstrated his fitness by being available to play in the Bengal Ranji Trophy opener.
Agarkar had previously indicated that no definite news had emerged regarding the fitness of Shami and that the pacer had not had a significant amount of competitive cricket on his resume of late. Shami, however, has been sweating to be back in shape with domestic matches since he had gone through Achilles tendon surgery.
The former bowler was the last to play in the finals of the champions trophy 2025 against New Zealand and now he is set to play in the Ranji Trophy with Bengal beginning with October 15. Shami was speaking at Eden Gardens when he indicated that the inability to communicate was not on his part and that the selectors should have done more about the situation.
“I have said this before. Selection is not in my hands. If there is a fitness issue, I shouldn’t be here playing for Bengal. I think I do not need to speak on this and create a controversy. If I can play four-dayers (Ranji Trophy), I can also play 50-overs cricket. About giving an update, it’s not my responsibility to give an update or ask for an update. It’s not my job to give updates on my fitness. My job is to go to the NCA, prepare and play matches. That’s their matter who gives them updates or not. It’s not my responsibility,” Shami told the reporters.
“Keep Fighting, Keep Playing Games” – Mohammed Shami’s Message to Young Cricketers
The pacer also stated that if he is not selected, he will continue to play for Bengal and compete for a berth in the national squad.
“Keep fighting, keep playing games. If you perform well, it will benefit you as well. Selection is not in my hands. I can only prepare and play matches. I’ve no objection. If you don’t select me, then I will come here and play for Bengal. I’ve no issue with it,” Shami added.
