15 Wickets, Still Ignored – Is This the End of Mohammed Shami’s Test Career?

Mohammed Shami has been left out of India’s Test squad for the South Africa series despite taking 15 wickets in the ongoing Ranji Trophy.

Mohammed Shami’s absence from India’s Test squad for the South Africa series has sparked debate despite his consistent domestic form. The veteran pacer has taken 15 wickets in three Ranji Trophy matches for Bengal this season but was overlooked by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel.

His childhood coach, Mohammed Badruddin, believes the selectors are ignoring the experienced bowler despite his fitness and strong performances. Many expected Shami’s inclusion, especially to manage Jasprit Bumrah’s workload during the home series.

“My thought is simple – they are ignoring him, that’s clear. There’s no other reason that makes sense to me. He’s not unfit – when a player is playing Test matches, taking 15 wickets in two games, then he doesn’t look unfit from anywhere. I don’t think he’s unfit,” India Today quoted Badruddin as saying.

“The selectors are just overlooking him, that’s it. Why they are doing that, only they can say. But I really thought he would be picked for this series, because it’s in India and only two fast bowlers will play anyway. Still, he should have been in the squad. That would’ve helped reduce Bumrah’s workload – because Bumrah can’t play three-and-a-half Tests in a row. They should’ve kept Shami for rotation, that’s what I feel,” he added.

Mohammed Shami last represented India in the 2025 Champions Trophy held in March. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar earlier stated that the 35-year-old pacer hasn’t played enough matches recently to merit Test selection. Responding to his exclusion, Shami remarked that his focus remains on performance, leaving selection decisions to the management.

With India seemingly shifting focus to younger pacers, Shami’s road back to Test cricket may depend on consistent domestic excellence.