India’s Test captain Shubman Gill has broken his silence on the ongoing exclusion of veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami from the Test squad. While acknowledging Shami’s immense talent and past contributions, Gill suggested that the team management is strategically looking towards the future with its current pace battery, which includes emerging talents like Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna. Speaking ahead of an upcoming Test fixture, Gill admitted that dropping a bowler of Shami’s caliber was a challenging decision. He emphasized that the performances of other bowlers who have seized opportunities in Shami’s absence, such as Akash Deep, alongside the consistent contributions of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, made the selection process particularly difficult.
“It’s never easy when someone like Shami bhai has to miss out, but at the same time, we have to plan ahead,” Gill stated during a pre-match press conference. He deferred detailed fitness and selection queries to the selectors, indicating that they are best positioned to provide definitive answers regarding Shami’s status. The seasoned pacer has not featured in a Test match since the World Test Championship final in 2023 due to persistent fitness issues. His last international appearance was during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, and he was also overlooked for the recent limited-overs series against Australia. Reports suggest Shami declined an offer to play for India A against England Lions, citing ongoing rehabilitation to increase his bowling workload. Medical reports available to the cricket board reportedly highlight concerns about his ability to sustain long bowling spells, though a board official affirmed that communication regarding his status has been ongoing. Despite these national team setbacks, Shami has demonstrated impressive form in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season, taking 15 wickets in three matches, including a five-wicket haul, signaling his continued prowess in domestic cricket.