The debate over Mohammed Shami’s international future intensified on Sunday after former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan publicly questioned the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selection committee. Following the announcement of India's squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, where Shami was once again omitted, Pathan took to his YouTube channel to ask chief selector Ajit Agarkar: "What more improvement is needed?" India Announces 15-Member Squad For ODI Series Against New Zealand; Shubman Gill to Lead, Shreyas Iyer Returns.

Shami, who hasn't represented the national side since India’s victorious 2025 Champions Trophy campaign in March, was widely expected to return for the home series starting January 11. Despite being the leading wicket-taker for Bengal in the ongoing domestic season, the 35-year-old was overlooked in favor of a younger pace battery including Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna.

The Fitness Argument

The primary reason cited for Shami's continued absence has been his recovery from an ankle injury and subsequent fitness levels. However, Pathan argued that Shami’s heavy workload in domestic cricket serves as a definitive "fitness test."

"Shami has already bowled over 200 overs this season across the Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali, and Vijay Hazare Trophy," Pathan noted. "After bowling that much, if fitness is still the question, then the selection committee needs to clarify what they are actually looking for. A bowler with over 400 international wickets doesn't need to prove his skill; he has already proven he is ready to play."

Domestic Dominance Ignored

Shami’s recent statistics provide a strong case for his recall. Representing Bengal, the veteran quick has claimed 47 wickets this season. In the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy alone—India’s premier 50-over domestic tournament—Shami has taken 15 wickets in seven matches at an impressive average of 14.93.

Critics and fans have pointed out that with Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya being rested for the ODI leg of the New Zealand tour to manage workloads ahead of the T20 World Cup in February, Shami’s experience would have provided much-needed stability to the bowling attack.

The Road Back via IPL 2026

With the national doors appearing temporarily closed, Pathan advised Shami to use the upcoming IPL 2026 season to "create havoc." Shami was recently acquired by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for ₹10 crore in the December auction after being released by Sunrisers Hyderabad.

"If I were him, I would go to the IPL and perform at such a level that no one can ignore me," Pathan said. "When you show that old rhythm and pace on a global stage like the IPL, it forces the selectors' hands. I believe his doors should not be closed." Bangladesh National Cricket Team Decide Against Travelling to India For ICC T20 World Cup 2026; BCB Takes Decision Following Mustafizur Rahman Controversy.

Looking Ahead

The three-match ODI series against New Zealand begins on January 11 in Vadodara, followed by matches in Rajkot and Indore. While the current squad reflects a shift toward the 2027 ODI World Cup cycle, the exclusion of a proven match-winner like Shami remains the most contentious talking point in Indian cricket.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 04, 2026 06:35 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).