Aakash Chopra rejects age as reason for Mohammed Shami's India snub

Former India batsman Aakash Chopra dismissed suggestions that age alone explains Mohammed Shami's exclusion from the national team. Chopra cited the continued selection of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as evidence that selectors consider factors beyond age. Shami has not played for India since the Champions Trophy final in March 2025.

Shami questioned his fitness concerns after taking key wickets in East Zone's Duleep Trophy triumph. The pacer helped East Zone secure their first title in 13 years through a drawn final against South Zone. Shami has maintained consistent domestic performances since his last international appearance.

The selectors' continued preference for younger pacers suggests criteria beyond fitness and form. Chopra argued that age is not the primary factor in Shami's exclusion.