Manoj Tiwary Questions BCCI After Mohammed Shami Misses Out

Former India batter Manoj Tiwary questioned the BCCI selectors for ignoring Mohammed Shami despite his strong domestic form.

Manoj Tiwary raised concerns over Mohammed Shami’s continued absence from the national team despite his strong form. Shami, who finished as the joint-highest wicket-taker in India’s 2025 Champions Trophy win, has taken 20 wickets in four Ranji Trophy matches for Bengal this season.

Tiwary said the experienced pacer deserved clearer communication from the BCCI selectors, especially after being overlooked for both the Test series and the ODIs in Australia. He feels the situation points out to a lack of clarity within the team environment.

“There seems to be a lack of trust and understanding within the team circle. Mohammed Shami has taken wickets consistently for Bengal, but he wasn’t selected for Tests or even the ODIs in Australia,” Tiwary stated in an interview with India Today.

Earlier, chief selector Ajit Agarkar had admitted that the panel had no clear update on Mohammed Shami’s fitness. Manoj Tiwary criticised this explanation, arguing that it is the responsibility of the support staff and team management to keep selectors fully informed.

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“Selectors said there was no fitness update. But whose job is that? Trainers and physios should provide updates. At least pick up the phone and ask the player. He is a senior player who has contributed for years—you can at least call him. That’s the responsibility of the coach and selection committee,” the former cricketer added.

Notably, Mohammed Shami had also recently expressed disappointment at missing national selection but said his priority remains performing whenever selected. He then brushed aside social media speculation around his return, noting that online conversations often create unnecessary noise.