Fast bowler Mohammed Shami was not recalled to India’s ODI squad for the 3-match ODI series against New Zealand. Despite consistent performances in the domestic season, Shami was overlooked as the selectors opted for Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna as the preferred fast-bowling quartet in the 50-over format.
Shami’s personal coach lashed out at the selection call and slammed chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar after the squad was announced. Speaking to India Today over the phone, the coach vented his frustration and questioned what more the pacer could do to force his way back into the Indian side.
“What more can a player do? How many more wickets should the player take?” Shami’s coach told India Today.
Mohammed Shami has been consistent across the domestic circuit this season, picking up wickets in every competition. He has played five matches so far in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, taking 11 wickets. In Bengal’s latest match against Assam, Shami returned figures of 3 for 55, helping bowl out the opposition for 217.
Shami’s coach feared the worst for his disciple, stating that the selectors might have moved on from the fast bowler.
“This means that they do not want him in the ODI team. He has a lot to give,” he said.
Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla was also extremely unhappy with the snub and criticised the selection committee. The former KKR player said no other international cricketer had shown more dedication to domestic cricket in recent times.
