Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan said that there was no reason why Mohammed Shami was not picked in India’s squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Irfan said that if there were questions around the 35-year-old’s fitness, those concerns have already been addressed by the veteran pacer through his domestic performances.
“The biggest talking point is Mohammed Shami. What is his future? He’s not someone who came yesterday, played a few matches and left. He has taken 450–500 international wickets, which is a huge number. If you have taken more than 400 wickets and then you get dropped and questions are raised about your fitness — that happens with everyone,” he said.
“As long as you play cricket, you have to keep proving yourself. But Shami has already bowled 200 overs. After bowling 200 overs, if fitness is the question, then fitness has already been shown. What more improvement is needed, only the selection committee knows what they are thinking.”
Shami was last seen playing for India during their victorious campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. His recent performances have been impressive, as the right-arm pacer took 16 wickets from seven matches in the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025. In the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he has taken 11 wickets from five matches.
Irfan suggested that Shami should focus on delivering strong performances in the upcoming IPL.
“If I were him, I would go and play the IPL and create havoc. I would take the new ball and perform at such a level. Domestic cricket performances are discussed, but when the IPL comes and you show your old rhythm and fitness, then no one can ignore you. The whole world watches the IPL. If you perform there, you make your place in the squad again. I believe his doors should not be closed,” he added.
Also read- AB de Villiers hails Hardik Pandya as India’s biggest match winner
For the latest sports news follow- Revsportz
