Kaif demands answers over Shami’s continued India omission

Kaif questions selectors’ silence after Shami misses New Zealand squads

Former India batter Mohammad Kaif has urged the national selectors to explain their decision to leave Mohammed Shami out of the squads for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, which features two Tests, five one-day internationals and five T20 internationals.

Kaif said the absence of a public explanation raised concerns about accountability. “No questions are asked, no BCCI selector explains the decisions, there’s no accountability. You’ve to keep transparency,” he said on Cricbuzz, arguing that Shami’s contribution to India’s run to the 2023 ODI World Cup final deserved consideration.

Shami took 24 wickets in seven matches at the 2023 ODI World Cup, finishing as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker. Kaif recalled that Shami came into the side after Hardik Pandya was injured, saying the fast bowler helped India manage its attack without a sixth specialist bowling option. He also credited Rohit Sharma with taking India to the final with five bowlers, with Shami serving as the backup.

Domestic form and fitness remain central to debate

Kaif pointed to Shami’s recent domestic cricket as evidence that the pacer is still working to earn a return. He said Shami had taken “22-23 wickets in Indian conditions” and was playing first-class cricket and the Ranji Trophy.

The report notes that concerns about match fitness and Shami’s ability to handle the demands of Test cricket have been cited in discussions around his exclusion. His spells in domestic matches have reportedly been short. Kaif questioned whether that should rule him out, comparing the workload management used for Jasprit Bumrah and noting that Shubman Gill had followed a managed approach in England.

Shami last played for India in March 2025, during the Champions Trophy, while his most recent Test appearance came in the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023. He was also rested from Bengal’s second-round match in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season, leaving his immediate return to competitive cricket uncertain.

Kaif said selectors should clarify how fitness, workload and domestic performances are being weighed as India prepares for the New Zealand series. “Someone has to give the clarity,” he said.