Mohammed Shami’s last appearance in the Indian jersey was in the Champions Trophy final, and since then, he has been fighting for a place in the Indian team. Shami was not picked for the ODI series against Australia and South Africa, and the Test series against West Indies and South Africa. Moreover, the veteran Bengal pacer was involved in a public spat with Ajit Agarkar, criticizing the chief selector’s comments on his fitness and communication.
Despite the setback, Shami has continued to grind hard in domestic cricket, picking 44 wickets in 15 matches across the Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and Vijay Hazare Trophy in the ongoing Indian domestic cricket season. It was reported that the veteran pacer is likely to be rewarded for his domestic performances by selecting him for the ODI series against New Zealand.