Mohammad Kaif calls for transparency over Shami omission
Kaif said selectors owe Shami clarity given his domestic form and past contributions.
Former India batter Mohammad Kaif called for greater transparency from selectors after Mohammed Shami was left out of India's squads for the New Zealand tour. Kaif said Shami's domestic returns and his role in the 2023 ODI World Cup merit an explanation from the selection committee.
Shami took five wickets against Delhi in Bengal's opening Ranji Trophy match but was subsequently rested from the second game. Kaif noted that Shami is bowling short spells and questioned why that should rule him out when Jasprit Bumrah bowls similar spells.
India named separate squads for two Tests, five ODIs and five T20Is. Shami last played for India in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
CricHubb Take
Without a public explanation, the gap between domestic output and international selection will continue to fuel speculation about fitness or selection philosophy.