Sports Desk, New Delhi
The announcement of Team India’s squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa has sparked controversy after senior fast bowler Mohammed Shami was once again left out. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar and the BCCI are facing heavy criticism for ignoring the experienced pacer, with Shami’s coach Mohammed Badruddin openly expressing his disappointment and accusing the selection committee of bias.
Shami Ignored Despite Stellar Domestic Form
Mohammed Shami, who last played for India in the Champions Trophy, has been out of the Test setup for a while. However, his recent performances in domestic cricket show that he is still in excellent form.
In the Ranji Trophy, Shami picked up 15 wickets in his first two matches, proving both his rhythm and fitness. Despite such performances, he was not selected for the South Africa Tests, which has raised many eyebrows.
Coach Badruddin Slams the Selection Committee
Speaking to India Today, Shami’s coach Mohammed Badruddin said that selectors are clearly ignoring Shami without any valid reason.
He said:
They are deliberately ignoring him — that’s clear. He is fit and performing well. When a bowler takes 15 wickets in two matches, he can’t be called unfit. The selectors are overlooking him, and only they know why.
Selectors Had Made Up Their Minds in Advance
Badruddin claimed that the decision to leave Shami out was made long before the squad announcement. Shami was not even picked for the India A side earlier, indicating that the selectors had already decided to exclude him from the senior team.
He further said:
I think they had already made up their minds not to pick Shami, and that’s completely wrong. A Test team should be selected based on Ranji Trophy performances, not T20 form. It seems they had already decided who they want to include.
Badruddin also rejected the selectors’ reasoning about Shami’s fitness or lack of match practice, calling it an excuse.
This talk about him not being fit or needing match practice is just an excuse. They already have a plan about who they want to play and who they don’t,” he added.
Fans Question BCCI’s Selection Policy
Shami’s exclusion has triggered widespread criticism from fans and experts alike. Many have taken to social media questioning why a proven match-winner like Shami — who has been one of India’s most reliable Test bowlers — continues to be ignored despite performing well in domestic cricket.
As the South Africa Test series approaches, the controversy over Shami’s omission has once again raised questions about the fairness and transparency of the selection process.
