Shami, the fast bowler who racked up 24 wickets to guide India to the 2023 ODI World Cup final, was left out of the squad for the New Zealand tour.
The BCCI named a 12‑man side earlier this week, but the omission of a bowler who has taken 22‑23 wickets in recent Ranji matches sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity.
Former India batsman Mohammad Kaif took to Cricbuzz to slam the selectors, saying, ‘No questions asked, no transparency’—the same conditions that saw Shami’s 24‑wicket haul.
Kaif reminded that Shami filled the void when Hardik Pandya was sidelined, and that the team had reached the final without a sixth bowler, all because Shami was there as backup.
Selectors say match fitness is a concern, citing Shami’s short spells in domestic games; but Kaif points out that Jasprit Bumrah has managed four‑over bursts in Tests, so the same logic could apply.
With the New Zealand series looming, the debate over Shami’s readiness will continue, and all eyes will turn to the first Test on 6th August to see if the fast bowler can return to the crease.