Team India assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak has addressed Mohammed Shami’s absence from the national team after Bhuvneshwar Kumar was recalled for the T20I series against New Zealand. Kotak said he was not involved in selection decisions but added that Mohammed Shami remains an option.
Bhuvneshwar last played for India in November 2022 and will return to international cricket during the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand from October 22 to November 1. He claimed 45 wickets and helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) win consecutive titles in 2025 and 2026 in the IPL.
Sitanshu Kotak Responds to Mohammed Shami's Omission
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return has raised questions about Mohammed Shami’s place in India’s plans. Mohammed Shami last represented India in the 2025 Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in Dubai, where he took one wicket for 74 runs in nine overs.
Speaking ahead of the second T20I against the West Indies in Ranchi, Sitanshu Kotak said he could not explain the selection decision because he was not part of the selection panel. However, he added that Mohammed Shami could return if the team needed him.
“First of all, I am not a selector, so it is difficult for me to tell you that. But Shami is also playing and he is also doing well,” Kotak said.
“If the selectors feel that he is doing well and the team has a requirement, then any player can be selected.”
Sitanshu Kotak Explains Bhuvneshwar Kumar's Recall
Sitanshu Kotak suggested that Bhuvneshwar’s experience and recent IPL performances may have influenced the selectors. The assistant coach stated that India needs experienced bowlers in the attack, particularly when Jasprit Bumrah is unavailable.
“One thing is obviously with the selectors, but I can give you an answer based on what I think. In England, I personally felt that with Bumrah not being around and a lot of young bowlers playing, you can't beat experience,” Kotak said.
“The young bowlers are good, they are performing well and getting selected, but at some stage you also need some experience.”
“That might be one reason. Another thing is that Bhuvneshwar has been doing really well in the IPL for the last two seasons. So the selectors must have thought that, for New Zealand conditions and all, obviously he has been doing well and we need some experience,” he added.
Sitanshu Kotak Backs VVS Laxman's Involvement
Sitanshu Kotak was also asked about reports that VVS Laxman would participate in selection meetings. Kotak said he was unaware of the specific arrangement but expressed confidence in Laxman’s commitment to Indian cricket.
“Honestly, I don't know. I also came to know about what you just said from you. If any injury-related update is to be communicated by Laxman sir, I believe the decision taken by the BCCI will be purposeful,” Kotak said.
“I worked with Laxman for three years at the Centre of Excellence. He is very particular. When I was there, he used to tell us that if the Indian team has any requirement, our first duty is to fulfil it,” he added.
