Ajit Agarkar on Mohammed Shami's Fitness and Selection for Upcoming Matches
Shami's body ready only for T20s, says chief selector Ajit Agarkar
Image: Asianet Newsable
Ajit Agarkar, chief selector of the Indian men's cricket team, announced that fast bowler Mohammed Shami is not being considered for the Test and ODI squads against Afghanistan due to his physical condition, which is currently suited only for T20 formats. Shami last played for India in March 2025 and is currently participating in the Indian Premier League 2026.
- 01Mohammed Shami has not been part of selection discussions for the Test and ODI squads against Afghanistan due to fitness concerns.
- 02Shami last represented India in an ODI match in March 2025 and is currently playing in the IPL 2026.
- 03Ajit Agarkar confirmed that Shami's body is currently only ready for T20 cricket.
- 04Auqib Nabi was considered for the Test squad after impressive domestic performances but was ultimately not selected.
- 05Nabi finished the Ranji Trophy 2026 season with 60 wickets, including seven 5-wicket hauls.
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Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector for the Indian men's cricket team, stated that fast bowler Mohammed Shami is not being considered for the Test and ODI squads against Afghanistan due to his current physical condition, which is deemed suitable only for T20 formats. Agarkar emphasized that while Shami has participated in domestic cricket this season, he is primarily being managed for T20 matches. Shami last played for India in an ODI match in March 2025 and is currently competing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, where he has taken 10 wickets in 12 matches with an economy rate of 8.81. In addition, Agarkar mentioned that Auqib Nabi was close to being selected for the Test squad after strong performances in domestic cricket, including a successful Ranji Trophy campaign. Despite discussions around Nabi's inclusion, the selection committee opted for a limited pace attack of three seamers. Nabi concluded the Ranji Trophy 2026 season with 60 wickets, showcasing his talent and potential for future selections.
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Shami's absence from the squad may affect the team's performance in the upcoming matches, while Nabi's strong domestic performance keeps him in contention for future selections.
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