The decision by BCCI selectors to exclude experienced fast bowler Mohammed Shami from India’s 16-member squad for the upcoming Test series in New Zealand has sparked a heated debate in the cricketing world.
Despite delivering stellar performances in domestic cricket and the IPL, the 36-year-old pacer remains sidelined from the national Test side. He last played a Test match for India in the World Test Championship final in June 2023.
Abhinav Mukund dismissed speculation that Mohammed Shami’s age played a significant role in the selection committee’s decision
Sharing his perspective on this omission, former Indian batter Abhinav Mukund dismissed speculation that Shami’s age played a significant role in the selection committee’s decision. Citing past instances within the national setup—such as Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s recent return to the T20I squad—Mukund argued that this proves the BCCI is not excluding experienced players solely based on their age.
Mukund stated, “India has a pool of fast bowlers they are working with, and there must be specific reasons for not selecting Mohammed Shami. I don’t believe age is a criterion; if it were, Bhuvneshwar Kumar wouldn’t have made a comeback to the T20I side. The selectors and the team management certainly have their reasons for leaving Shami out of this squad.”
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In Shami’s absence, the selectors have placed their faith in a pace-bowling group that includes Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, and youngster Anshul Kamboj. Mukund praised the inclusion of Akash Deep and Kamboj, noting that the team management is following a broader roadmap aimed at building a strong bench strength for overseas tours.
