In a significant development ahead of India’s challenging Test series in New Zealand, premier fast bowler Mohammed Shami and promising young pacer Auqib Nabi have reportedly been excluded from the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) shortlist of pacers.
The decision by selectors, reported by Dainik Jagran and widely covered, suggests a shift in India’s red-ball strategy for the crucial tour.
The Indian team is scheduled to embark on a comprehensive tour of New Zealand from October 22 to December 1, 2026, featuring five T20 Internationals, five One-Day Internationals, and two vital Test matches. The Test series, which forms a critical part of India’s World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle, will see the Shubman Gill-led side needing a dominant 2-0 victory to bolster their chances of reaching the next WTC final.
Mohammed Shami’s Continued Absence
Mohammed Shami, who last featured for India in the 2023 ODI World Cup, has been on a long road to recovery following an ankle injury that required surgery in February 2024. Despite his recent return to competitive cricket, the veteran pacer has reportedly not been deemed match-fit or suitable for the rigours of an away Test series by the selection committee.
His absence raises concerns, given his experience and impressive record, particularly in overseas conditions. Shami boasts 229 wickets from 64 Tests, with 15 scalps in four red-ball games in New Zealand. However, the team management appears reluctant to rush his return, prioritising long-term fitness over immediate inclusion for this pivotal tour.
Auqib Nabi’s Overlook Despite Form
Auqib Nabi, the Jammu and Kashmir pacer, finds himself in a similar predicament. After a stellar 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season where he emerged as the leading wicket-taker with 60 wickets, Nabi was called into the Indian Test squad as an injury replacement for Jasprit Bumrah during the recent Sri Lanka series. Although he didn’t make his debut, his inclusion signalled growing recognition.
In a strategic move, the BCCI even facilitated a short-term County Championship deal for Nabi with Surrey, aiming to provide him valuable red-ball experience in English conditions, a preparation often considered beneficial for New Zealand tours. Nabi made his Surrey debut against Yorkshire at The Oval on September 2. Despite these concerted efforts and his recent form, the selectors have reportedly opted for other pacers for the New Zealand assignment.
The Chosen Five Pacers
The BCCI selectors have reportedly shortlisted five pacers for the upcoming Test series, with a focus on a combination of proven performers and emerging talents. The selected fast bowlers are: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, and Akash Deep.
However, concerns remain regarding the fitness of Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep, who have both been battling injuries. Gurnoor Brar, while performing well for India A and in domestic circuits, is yet to make his Test debut for the senior team.
India vs New Zealand Test Series 2026 Schedule
| Match | Date | Venue | Time (NZST) | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Test | November 19-23, 2026 | Basin Reserve, Wellington | 11:30 AM | 4:00 AM (Nov 19) |
| 2nd Test | November 27-December 1, 2026 | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | 11:30 AM | 4:00 AM (Nov 27) |
Note: All match times are local (NZST) and Indian Standard Time (IST).
The absence of Shami’s experience and Nabi’s promising pace means the chosen five will face immense pressure to deliver in the challenging New Zealand conditions. The selectors’ decision highlights the intense competition for places in India’s pace attack as they aim for WTC glory.