Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has finally addressed his exclusion from the Asia Cup 2025 squad, dismissing retirement speculation and taking a subtle dig at the national selectors. In a candid interview with News24, Shami expressed disappointment over being overlooked despite clearing fitness tests and performing in recent tournaments. “If I can play the Duleep Trophy, then why won’t I be able to play T20 cricket?” he asked, challenging the logic behind his omission.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the Asia Cup squad on August 19, with five standby players—but Shami’s name was missing from both lists. The 34-year-old, who played a key role in India’s Champions Trophy win earlier this year, has now turned his focus to the Duleep Trophy, where he will represent East Zone starting August 28.
🧭 Timeline of Shami’s Recent Career and Asia Cup Snub
| Date | Event Description | Outcome/Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 2025 | Returned to India squad vs England | Played 2 T20Is, took 3 wickets |
| June 2025 | Champions Trophy 2025 | Took 9 wickets, second-highest wicket-taker |
| August 19, 2025 | Asia Cup squad announced | Shami excluded from main and standby lists |
| August 27, 2025 | Interview with News24 | Shami confirms fitness and availability |
| August 28, 2025 | Duleep Trophy begins | Shami to play for East Zone |
Despite his consistent performances in ICC tournaments, Shami’s absence from the Asia Cup squad has raised questions about selection transparency and long-term planning.
📊 Mohammed Shami’s Recent Performance Snapshot
| Tournament | Matches Played | Wickets Taken | Economy Rate | Best Figures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Champions Trophy 2025 | 5 | 9 | 6.2 | 3/28 |
| IPL 2025 (SRH) | 8 | 6 | 11.23 | 2/44 |
| England T20I Series | 2 | 3 | 7.8 | 2/21 |
| ODI World Cup 2023 | 7 | 24 | 5.1 | 5/18 |
While his IPL form was below par, Shami’s record in international tournaments remains formidable, especially in high-pressure knockout games.
🔍 Shami’s Statement: Fitness, Form, and Frustration
In his interview, Shami made it clear that he’s not retiring and is still available for all formats. “I don’t blame anyone for non-selection or complain about it. If I’m right for the team, select me; if I’m not, then I have no issues with it,” he said.
He added, “I’ve cleared all fitness tests. I was called to Bengaluru and passed the Bronco test. I’m ready to go back. If I’m playing the Duleep Trophy, 5-day cricket, I’m available for all formats.”
| Statement Highlight | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| “You don’t pick me…” | Frustration with selectors |
| “I’m working hard…” | Commitment to comeback |
| “No hopes right now…” | Acceptance of current situation |
| “Selectors have the responsibility…” | Respect for process, but questioning logic |
Shami’s remarks reflect both his professionalism and his disappointment at being sidelined despite proven credentials.
📉 Selection Committee Under Scrutiny
The Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel has faced criticism for ignoring experienced players like Shami, especially when the Asia Cup squad includes pacers with limited international exposure.
| Selector Name | Role | Criticism Faced |
|---|---|---|
| Ajit Agarkar | Chief Selector | Ignored ICC performers like Shami |
| Shiv Sundar Das | Selector | Backed IPL form over experience |
| Salil Ankola | Selector | Overlooked fitness-cleared veterans |
Fans and experts alike have questioned whether IPL performance alone should dictate national selection, especially for multi-nation tournaments.
🧠 Fan Reactions and Media Buzz
Shami’s comments have sparked a wave of support on social media, with fans calling for his inclusion in future squads and questioning the selectors’ decisions.
| Platform | Sentiment Summary | Trending Hashtags |
|---|---|---|
| Twitter/X | Support for Shami, criticism of selectors | #JusticeForShami #AsiaCupSnub |
| Reels showing Shami’s past performances | #ShamiComeback | |
| YouTube Shorts | Clips from interview gaining traction | #ShamiSpeaks |
Many fans believe Shami’s experience and temperament make him indispensable in ICC tournaments, regardless of IPL form.
🔥 What’s Next for Shami?
Shami will now focus on the Duleep Trophy, where he’ll represent East Zone. His performance will be closely monitored by selectors and could influence future squad decisions for the South Africa series and the T20 World Cup 2026.
| Upcoming Event | Role/Participation | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Duleep Trophy 2025 | East Zone player | Prove fitness and form |
| India A vs Australia A | Possible selection | Showcase readiness for ODI format |
| T20 World Cup 2026 | Uncertain | Depends on selectors’ stance |
Shami remains hopeful but realistic, stating that selection is not in his hands and he will continue to give his best whenever called upon.
📌 Conclusion
Mohammed Shami’s exclusion from the Asia Cup 2025 squad has reignited debates around selection policies, fitness standards, and the value of experience in Indian cricket. While the selectors have opted for younger, IPL-tested pacers, Shami’s track record in ICC events and his recent fitness clearance suggest he still has plenty to offer.
His statement—“You don’t pick me, but I’m still ready”—is both a challenge and a reminder that form is temporary, but class is permanent. As Shami gears up for the Duleep Trophy, fans and selectors alike will be watching closely to see if the veteran pacer can script yet another comeback.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available news reports and official statements as of August 28, 2025. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or sports advice.
