Mohammed Shami Slams Selectors Over Fitness Claim; BCCI Steps In to Calm Tensions

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami, who is presently out of the Indian team, recently criticized Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar for not being chosen. The experienced fast bowler denied Agarkar's assertions that he was not fit to be selected, which is why Shami has not represented India since the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is now working to appease Mohammed Shami in this matter.

Mohammed Shami had said that the selectors hadn't given him any updates. If he wasn't fit, how could he have played the Duleep Trophy and Ranji Trophy for Bengal? Shami had said, "It's not my responsibility to give or ask for updates. It's not my job to provide updates about my fitness. My job is to go to the NCA (National Cricket Academy), prepare, and play matches. That's their business; who gives them updates and who doesn't is not my responsibility."

Ajit Agarkar responded that he had spoken with Shami several times over the past few months, and the medical team doesn't believe he's fit for international cricket at this time. The chief selector also said that Team India would have liked to play him in Australia and England earlier, but that didn't happen.

Mohammed Shami didn't like Agarkar's response. After taking seven wickets against Uttarakhand, Shami lashed out at him, saying, "Let him say whatever he wants."

Before things escalate, the BCCI has sent newly appointed Central Zone selector Rudra Pratap Singh to Kolkata. According to a Sportskeeda report, RP had a long conversation with Shami after the second day's play during Bengal's second 2025-26 Ranji Trophy match against Gujarat at Eden Gardens.

Like Shami, RP is also from Uttar Pradesh, and although Shami moved to Bengal to pursue his cricketing aspirations, the regional connection may prove helpful. At least that's what the BCCI hopes.