Major reason behind Mohammed Shami's snub for India's tour of New Zealand: Revealed
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Mohammed Shami didn’t make cut into India squad for New Zealand tour.
India are preparing for a busy tour of New Zealand, which will include five T20Is, five ODIs and two Test matches. The tour will begin with the T20I series on October 22, followed by the ODIs from November 4. The first Test is scheduled to start on November 19.
The upcoming series will be important for India as the team continues to prepare for future international challenges. The ODI matches will also give the selectors a chance to look at different players and combinations ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squads for the ODI and Test series on October 16. While several players have received opportunities, some experienced names are missing from the team. One of the biggest talking points is the absence of fast bowler Mohammed Shami.
Here’s why Mohammed Shami missed out on India’s squad for New Zealand tour
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Mohammed Shami has once again been left out of India’s ODI and Test squads for the New Zealand tour. His absence has raised questions about his future in international cricket, especially with the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching.
According to the Indian Express report, the selectors and team management have concerns about Shami’s fitness despite his performances in the Ranji Trophy. The report also suggests that they are unsure whether he can bowl longer spells and are therefore looking at younger fast bowlers.
The experienced pacer last played for India in the ICC Champions Trophy final in 2025. Under Rohit Sharma‘s captaincy, India defeated New Zealand to win the title. However, Shami has not featured for the national team since that match.
His continued absence has surprised many fans, particularly because Jasprit Bumrah was rested for ODI leg of New Zealand tour. Some expert believe Shami’s experience could have helped India’s pace attack.
Despite missing out on selection, Shami has continued to perform in domestic cricket for Bengal. During the 2025-26 domestic season, he picked up 68 wickets across three competitions.
He took 37 wickets in the Ranji Trophy, 15 in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and 16 in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. These numbers show that he has remained active and effective in domestic cricket.
When did Mohammed Shami last play for India?
Shami last played for India in the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in March 2025.
How many wickets did Mohammed Shami take in the 2025-26 domestic season?
Shami took 68 wickets across the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy while playing for Bengal.
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