Out-of-favour India pacer Mohammed Shami continues to knock on the national selectors’ doors with strong domestic performances, but his omission from the Indian team has sparked fresh criticism — this time from his childhood coach.
Shami’s mentor, Badaruddin Siddiqui, has lashed out at chief selector Ajit Agarkar and the selection panel for overlooking the experienced fast bowler despite consistent displays in domestic cricket.
In the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 semi-final against Jammu and Kashmir at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani, Shami delivered the best figures of his first-class career — a sensational 8 for 90 in 22.1 overs. His spell helped Bengal secure a 26-run first-innings lead.
Speaking to The Indian Express, Siddiqui expressed frustration over what he believes is continued neglect from the selectors.
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“I feel the selectors have forgotten about him. It’s tough for him and tough for me as well. Despite performances, he hasn’t made it back to the Indian team. He has no option but to keep performing and wait,” Siddiqui said.
He firmly dismissed concerns over Shami’s fitness, pointing to his workload in the semi-final.
“Today he took eight wickets and bowled more than 20 overs. Fitness is not an issue for sure.”
Siddiqui also questioned the logic behind leaving out a bowler of Shami’s calibre, particularly at a time when India have struggled in home Test matches.
“We don’t have a bowler like him in the Indian team right now. If there was someone of his quality, I could understand. We are losing Test matches at home, and still a master of red-ball cricket like Shami is sitting out,” he added.
With another dominant performance in domestic cricket, the pressure is mounting on the selectors to reconsider their stance on the seasoned pacer.
