Shami criticises media for linking him to controversies

Mohammed Shami criticised sections of the media for repeatedly dragging him into controversies during an interaction at the Ranji Trophy match between Bengal and Services in Delhi. The India pacer has not played for the national side since the 2025 Champions Trophy final.

Shami said journalists enjoy creating unnecessary issues around his name, while acknowledging their support. He added that players have personal lives and make mistakes. Shami was left out of Bengal's playing XI for the match, which the state won by 60 runs.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who last represented India in 2022, earned a recall for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand. Shami backed the seamer's return and said he should have been recalled earlier based on his performances.