Photo via India Today

Why Shami isn't being picked: Kaif wants clarity from BCCI after NZ tour snub

Former India all-rounder Mohammad Kaif has publicly questioned the BCCI’s decision to exclude fast bowler Mohammed Shami from the upcoming New Zealand tour squad, calling for greater transparency in the selection process. Shami, who last played for India during the England series in 2025, has continued to perform strongly domestically, claiming 37 wickets in seven Ranji Trophy matches for Bengal last season at an average of 16.72, including three five-wicket hauls.

His recent form includes a five-wicket haul in the first innings of Bengal’s Ranji Trophy opener against Services. Despite his domestic success, selectors have cited concerns over Shami’s fitness and match readiness, with former chief selector Ajit Agarkar noting in May 2026 that discussions about a Test comeback had not taken place and that Shami’s body appeared better suited to T20 cricket at the time.

Kaif challenged these claims, pointing out that other Indian pacers like Jasprit Bumrah also bowl short spells and are managed accordingly during Tests, suggesting inconsistency in the selection criteria. He also highlighted Shami’s historical success against New Zealand, including 15 Test wickets and 27 ODI wickets at an average of 22.44, and argued that the Blackcaps would likely welcome his exclusion, given his impact in past encounters, such as his match-winning performance in Dharamshala during the 2023 ODI World Cup and the semi-final at Wankhede.

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