Mohammed Shami Likely to Miss England Tests, Fitness Concerns Put Pacer’s Future in Doubt: Report

Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami is set to be left out of India's squad for the upcoming Test series in England, with selectors reportedly not considering him due to fitness concerns.

The official squad announcement, scheduled for Saturday, May 24, will also confirm a new Test captain following Rohit Sharma's retirement from the format. But the absence of Shami-one of India's most experienced fast bowlers-could be a major talking point.

Shami, 33, last played a Test match during the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023. Since then, a recurring ankle injury has kept him away from the red-ball format. Although he returned to first-class cricket earlier this year, he was not picked for the home series against Australia and has remained on the sidelines.

According to a report by The Indian Express, the BCCI's medical team has informed the board that Shami isn't yet fit to bowl long spells-something that will be critical during a five-Test series in England. As a result, the selectors are expected to exclude him from the squad once again, prioritizing bowlers with proven endurance and full fitness.

Shami had played a crucial role in India's memorable 2023 ODI World Cup campaign, finishing as the tournament's leading wicket-taker. However, the effort took a toll on his body, and he has not featured in any competitive cricket since. With his recovery taking longer than expected, questions are now being raised about his future in the longest format.

His likely omission could pave the way for the inclusion of promising quicks like Arshdeep Singh and Anshul Kamboj. Arshdeep, a left-arm pacer and regular in T20Is, is being considered for his Test debut. Kamboj, a young right-arm seamer from Haryana, has been impressive with India A and could be rewarded with a spot in the senior team.

As India prepares for a tough overseas challenge, the absence of Shami-if confirmed-would mark a significant moment, perhaps signalling the beginning of a transition in India's famed pace attack.