Team India's Exclusion of Mohammed Shami for South Africa Test Series
Mohammed Shami was left out of India's squad for the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa, which begins on November 14. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed both the Test squad and the India A squad for the three-match series against South Africa A starting November 13, with Shami absent from both teams.
Shami's Recent Career and Form
Shami, who was India's highest wicket-taker in the 2023 World Cup and joint-top in the 2025 Champions Trophy, last appeared internationally in March 2025. Following this, he played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) but was not selected for the England tour between June and August, as he was considered unfit for such a lengthy campaign.
After the 2023 World Cup, Shami experienced an extended period out due to injury. His first international return after that was in January 2025. More recently, he has been active in domestic cricket and performed well in the Ranji Trophy for Bengal.
Domestic Performance and Impact
The 35-year-old fast bowler, who previously formed a potent bowling duo with Jasprit Bumrah, helped Bengal secure consecutive victories against Uttarakhand and Gujarat. Across three matches, Shami bowled 93 overs in short bursts and took over 15 wickets, showing solid domestic form.
"He bowled 93 overs across three matches, albeit in short spells, and accounted for more than 15 wickets."
Current Scenario
Despite consistent performances in domestic cricket, Shami has been overlooked for the national Test squad once again, leaving uncertainty about his future in Team India.
"The BCCI announced the Test squad and the India A squad... and the fast bowler's name was missing from both."
Author's summary: Despite strong domestic performances and past international success, Mohammed Shami's exclusion from India's Test squads signals a challenging phase in his cricketing career.