Shastri slams selectors for ignoring Shami, questions: What more can he prove?
· Sports · Times of India
Ravi Shastri criticized selectors for not giving Mohammed Shami another Test chance after the fast bowler announced his retirement, saying Shami had already proved his fitness by bowling 14 wickets for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy season. Shastri highlighted Shami’s regular appearances for Bengal and his ability to bowl 10‑12 overs per innings as a genuine fitness indicator. He questioned the selectors’ reasoning, asking what more a player needs to do to prove readiness for international cricket. Shami, a 36-year-old 13-year veteran, confirmed he will keep playing white-ball cricket after ending his Test career. The comments come amid ongoing debates about fitness standards for senior players in Indian cricket.
Why it matters
The dispute puts pressure on BCCI selectors to clarify fitness criteria and may influence future selection policies for senior fast bowlers in Indian cricket. It also raises questions about how domestic performance is weighed against selective perceptions of fitness, potentially affecting other veteran players awaiting chances.
Read the original report — Times of India
Join us on Telegram
Breaking news the moment it lands. At 10,000 members we ship the Android app.