21 October 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has made it clear that he has not given up on his dream of representing India again. Despite being left out of the squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, the experienced pacer insists that he remains at the peak of his fitness and is focused on continuing to perform in domestic cricket.
Shami made the remarks while speaking to reporters after Bengal’s Ranji Trophy match against Services in Delhi. His comments came amid questions about his fitness, workload and continued absence from the national team. The 36-year-old firmly rejected doubts about his ability to bowl long spells, saying that the number of overs a bowler delivers depends on match conditions and the team’s requirements.
Shami Confident About His Fitness
Responding to questions about his fitness, Shami stated that he still considers himself to be at his peak. He also questioned the criticism surrounding his bowling workload and suggested that people watching from outside cannot decide how many overs a fast bowler should deliver.
According to Shami, bowling plans depend on the pitch, the opposition’s batting and the situation of the match. On certain surfaces, spinners may be more effective, while fast bowlers may be required to bowl longer spells when conditions favour them.
Shami also clarified that his decision to sit out Bengal’s Ranji Trophy fixture against Services was not related to fitness concerns. The match was played on a surface where spinners dominated, and he believed that giving younger players an opportunity would be more beneficial for the team.
He added that he had continued training and bowled in the nets for around 90 minutes, dismissing speculation that he was unable to maintain his workload.
Why Shami Missed the Ranji Trophy Match
Shami’s absence from Bengal’s match against Services attracted attention because he had recently missed selection for India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand. Questions were raised about whether the experienced pacer was struggling to maintain the demands of competitive cricket.
However, Bengal coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla had previously indicated that Shami was fit and had requested rest after bowling extensively in the opening match against Delhi.
Shami had made an encouraging start to the Ranji Trophy season, taking four wickets for 30 runs in 17.3 overs against Delhi. His performance demonstrated his ability to contribute with the ball in domestic cricket.
Bengal subsequently defeated Services by 60 runs, with spinners claiming the majority of the wickets. Shami explained that there was little value in playing simply to bowl a few overs when the conditions did not favour his style of bowling. He also wanted younger players to gain valuable match experience.
India Comeback Remains His Goal
Despite another omission from the national squad, Shami said he was not disappointed and remained focused on playing as much cricket as possible.
He explained that regular participation in domestic tournaments helps him maintain rhythm and prepare for upcoming assignments. Playing competitive cricket also supports his preparation for white-ball tournaments and the Indian Premier League.
Shami acknowledged that nobody can predict when a player might be required by the national team. Therefore, he wants to remain prepared and make the most of every opportunity he receives.
When asked whether he had abandoned hopes of returning to the Indian team, Shami made his position clear. He believes every professional should continue to have goals and work towards achieving them, regardless of the challenges faced along the way.
His immediate priority is to keep playing, improve his skills and remain ready for selection. However, a comeback will ultimately depend on his performances, fitness assessments and the decisions of the Indian selectors.
No Communication With Selectors
Shami was also asked whether he had spoken with the national selectors about his future. His response suggested that no such communication had taken place recently.
He pointed out that he was currently outside the Indian team and was not under contract with the national side, questioning why selectors would necessarily be in contact with him at this stage.
The absence of a national call-up has kept attention on his domestic performances. Former cricketers and fans have also raised questions about his continued omission, particularly given his previous contributions to Indian cricket.
Shami, however, has avoided making predictions about when he might return. Rather than focusing on selection discussions, he says his responsibility is to perform for whichever team he represents.
Focus on Bengal and Future Opportunities
Shami also spoke about his strong connection with Bengal, the team that has played an important role in his cricketing career. He said loyalty, hard work and commitment remain essential, regardless of the level of competition.
The veteran pacer has continued to feature in domestic cricket while waiting for another opportunity to represent India. His approach is to concentrate on the matches available to him rather than make long-term predictions about his international future.
Shami also declined to look too far ahead towards the 2027 ODI World Cup, saying that circumstances can change and players should focus on improving their performances in the present.
For now, his message is straightforward: he believes he remains capable of competing, has not abandoned his international ambitions and intends to keep working towards his goal. Whether that effort results in an India comeback will depend on future performances and selection decisions, but Shami has made it clear that he is not ready to give up.