Mohammed Shami insists he is still at his peak after India snub

Shami says India comeback remains a goal

Mohammed Shami says he has not given up hope of returning to India’s team after being left out of the squad for the upcoming all-format tour of New Zealand. The fast bowler, 36, spoke after Bengal’s Ranji Trophy victory over Services, stressing that domestic cricket remains central to his preparation.

“Hope should always be there (for India comeback). In any profession, in any sport, you should have a goal,” Shami said. Asked about the suggestion that he had previously been at the peak of his fitness, he replied: “I am still at my peak.”

‘Who will talk to me, and why?’

Asked whether he had spoken with the national selectors during the past year, Shami pointed to his absence from the side. “I am not in the Indian team, who will talk to me? And why will they talk to me?” he said.

Shami said he was not disappointed by missing the New Zealand tour and would concentrate on playing as many matches as possible to maintain his rhythm. He said domestic cricket would also help his preparation for the IPL and future opportunities, adding that he did not know “when and where” he might be needed by India.

Rather than look far ahead to next year’s ODI World Cup in South Africa, Shami said his priority was to keep improving his skills and fitness. He also welcomed Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to the national side, saying the veteran seamer’s form had merited an earlier recall.

The pacer reaffirmed his commitment to Bengal, crediting the team with helping build his career. “The day I end my career, it will be with this team,” he said.