Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami, who was one of the joint-highest wicket-takers in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, has found himself left out of India’s squad for the upcoming Australia tour. His exclusion has sparked a series of comments, particularly after India’s chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, mentioned that he was unaware of Shami’s fitness status.
Shami’s Response to Fitness Questions
In response to Agarkar’s statement, Shami has made it clear that he is not responsible for providing updates on his fitness. The 35-year-old pacer expressed his frustration, saying, “It’s not my responsibility to give updates or ask for an update. My job is to go to the NCA (National Cricket Academy), prepare and play matches.” Shami, who is gearing up for the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season opener against Uttarakhand at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, made it clear that his role is to focus on his preparation and performance, not to inform selectors about his fitness.
Shami further added, “Woh unki baat hai unko kaun update deta hai, kisne nahin diya (It is their matter as to who gives them updates or not). It’s not my responsibility.” His comment reflects his frustration with the ongoing confusion regarding his fitness status, pointing out that the Centre of Excellence (CoE) is the authority that provides fitness certificates, not individual players.
No Fitness Issue, Ready to Play
Despite his omission, Shami has strongly asserted that if there were any fitness concerns, he would not have been playing in domestic cricket. “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,” he remarked. Shami’s statement suggests that he feels fit and ready to play, and he believes his form in domestic cricket, particularly in the Ranji Trophy, should serve as evidence of his fitness.
Shami also dismissed the idea of creating unnecessary controversy, emphasizing that his capability to play four-day games like the Ranji Trophy proves he is equally capable of playing 50-over cricket. His message to the selectors is clear: his fitness is not in question, and he remains available for national selection if called upon.
Shami’s frustration is understandable, especially given his impressive performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite his omission from the Australia tour, the pacer is determined to stay focused on his domestic commitments and let his performances speak for themselves.
