Shocking! Mohammed Shami's refusal for England Tests puts his India future in jeopardy

Mohammed Shami’s future in Indian cricket seems uncertain, and the signs suggest that the veteran pacer may have already played his last international match. Even though he has bowled nearly 93 overs in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2025-26, it looks unlikely that fans will see him wearing the Indian whites again. His chances of returning to the ODI squad also appear bleak.

The 35-year-old pacer Mohammed Shami has already represented India in 197 matches across formats. However, he hasn’t been part of any Indian squad since the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 earlier this year, as the selectors turn their focus toward younger fast bowlers.

His troubles began after the 2023 World Cup when a serious heel injury forced him to undergo surgery. The long recovery kept him out of the game for months, and even after his return, opportunities at the international level never came.

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Mohammed Shami’s international future in doubt despite his Ranji comeback

The Indian pacers like Prasidh Krishna and Akash Deep have risen through the ranks, making it even tougher for Shami to reclaim his spot in the Test and T20I teams. The ODI format appeared to be his best chance for a comeback, but with the ICC World Cup scheduled for 2027, the road ahead looks tough. By that time, Shami will be 37, and his injury record, especially with his knee and heel, makes it tough for the selectors to build long-term plans around him.

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Meanwhile, it is being said that the selection committee was eager to have Mohammed Shami for the England Test series earlier this year, especially with concerns over Jasprit Bumrah’s workload. The selectors had even requested Shami to play one of the India A games against the England Lions in Canterbury or Northampton to assess his Test fitness. But the senior pacer informed them that he was still building his bowling workload and wasn’t ready to take part in the assignment.

The BCCI official was quoted as saying by PTI, “There have been multiple times that national selectors and support staff from the BCCI Centre of Excellence have called to check on Shami. The selection committee was desperate to get his services in England, as Jasprit Bumrah could not have played more than three tests. Who wouldn't want a bowler of his caliber in English conditions?”

BCCI’s medical team closely monitors Mohammed Shami’s fitness ahead of selectors’ crucial call

It is also being said that BCCI’s sports science and medical team continues to track Mohammed Shami's fitness closely. They have access to his detailed medical reports and are evaluating whether his body can handle the physical demands of international cricket once again.

The main concern is whether his body can sustain the intense workload required at the top level. While Shami believes he still has enough left in the tank to make an impact, the final call will rest with the selectors.

They have to decide whether it makes sense to invest in a 35-year-old pacer with recurring injury issues when there are younger bowlers waiting for opportunities.

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BCCI refutes reports of miscommunication with Mohammed Shami

There have also been reports about Shami being unhappy with the Indian selectors. He reportedly feels that there has been little communication from the national setup regarding his future. However, sources within the BCCI called them fake claims. Both the selectors and support staff have been in touch with Shami multiple times to check on his recovery and fitness.

The senior official further added, “So, the narrative that there was no communication with Shami isn't an absolute truth. The sports science team also has his medical reports and whether his body will be able to take the rigors of international cricket.”