New Delhi: Former India spinner R Ashwin believes Mohammed Shami has a strong chance of making a comeback to the Indian team after departure as chief selector.
Agarkar is no longer part of the Indian selection panel after his tenure as selector ended earlier this month.
Ashwin believes Agarkar’s exit might have sparked a change in approach as the selectors are now willing to give chances to some of the senior cricketers, who were earlier sidelined for the youngsters. Bhuvneshwar Kumar making his comeback to the Indian team after 4 years is a testament to the change in approach.
The BCCI announced India’s squad for their upcoming T20I series against New Zealand on Tuesday, with Bhuvneshwar making his much-awaited comeback. The pacer last played for India in the T20 World Cup 2022. Ashwin believes Shami too has a chance to earn his place back in the team if he can continue performing well.
“The chairman of selectors is set to be changed. Ajit Agarkar is no longer a part of the setup. Maybe Ajit focused more on youngsters and newcomers. But now you see, without Bumrah, India’s bowling attack can be a little susceptible,” Ashwin said in a video on his YouTube channel.
“The BCCI is now leaning towards experience. The fact that they have picked Bhuvneshwar (Kumar), I would not say that the door is shut on (Mohammed) Shami either. But I am extremely happy that Bhuvneshwar has broken down the door for his selection,” Ashwin added.
When did Mohammed Shami last play for India?
Shami last played for India in the final of the Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand in March last year. The senior pacer was then sidelined from across formats owing to fitness issues. Agarkar maintained that Shami had fitness issues despite the pacer’s consistent performances in the domestic circuit.
The duo also exchanged criticism over Shami’s non-selection in the Indian team. However, with Agarkar no longer part of the selection panel, Shami will be hoping to convince the selectors to give him a chance for India with his performances in the domestic circuit.