"If I can play the Duleep Trophy, then why won't I be able to play T20 cricket?" Mohammed Shami slams selectors for his Asia Cup 2025 snub

Mohammed Shami last played for India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Indian Cricket Team fast bowler Mohammed Shami has taken a jibe at Indian selectors for not picking him in the team for Asia Cup 2025. He said that if he was fit for Duleep Trophy 2025-26 then he would’ve played the T20I tournament as well. 

Mohammed Shami has been one of the unfortunate names who have missed a lot of cricketing action this year. After suffering an ankle injury during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, the fast bowler was out of the action for almost one year, with him taking time to recover. 

Mohammed Shami made a return to international cricket earlier this year during the home T20I series against England and then was part of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as well. However, he didn’t look completely fit as he struggled with his run-up. 

Shami then featured in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) as well, but due to fitness issues, he didn’t play all the games. Since then he has been out of action and also missed the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 in England. 

I don’t blame anyone for non-selection or complain about it – Mohammed Shami

However, now he has attained full fitness and will be featuring in Duleep Trophy 2025-26. While talking about his selection for India, he said that it’s not in his hands, but he will be giving his best. Speaking to News 24, he said: 

“I don’t blame anyone for non-selection or complain about it. If I’m right for the team, select me; if I’m not, then I have no issues with it. Selectors have the responsibility to do what’s best for Team India. I have a belief in my abilities that if and when I’m granted an opportunity, I’ll give my best. I’m working hard.” 

He also shared his take on missing the Asia Cup 2025, saying: “If I can play the Duleep Trophy, then why won’t I be able to play T20 cricket?” 

Mohammed Shami also talked about his international return, saying that he doesn’t have any hope about it. But if he gets picked, he will give his best, confirming that he cleared the Bronco test. He added: 

“Right now, I don’t have any hope (about my international return). If they play me, I’ll try to perform and give my 100 percent. Whether they play me or not, that’s not in my hands. If I’m playing the Duleep Trophy, five-day cricket, I’m available for all formats. I was called to Bengaluru, and I have cleared the fitness test (Bronco), and now I’m ready to go back,” he concluded.

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