Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has broken his silence on not getting picked for the Asia Cup 2025 squad. The BCCI picked the Indian squad on August 19, with Shami and Mohammed Siraj not being picked.
The Chairman of Selectors faced a barrage of questions for not picking several deserving players in the squad, including Shreyas Iyer. He tactfully answered all of them.
On Siraj, he said that the pacer was rested for the upcoming Test series against West Indies. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah has been picked for the tournament as he makes his T20I return after more than a year. He last played the T20 World Cup 2024 final.
If I Can Play The Duleep Trophy, I Can Certainly Play T20Is - Mohammed Shami
In an exclusive interview with News 24, Mohammed Shami addressed the question on him missing out from the Asia Cup squad and whether the BCCI he was consulted by the BCCI selectors ahead of the Asia Cup squad selection
"I have neither blamed anyone nor complained that the selectors should or shouldn't talk to me. I don't care about it that much. If I fit into your plans, then select me in the team. If I don't, then don't pick me. I have no objections. You fulfill your duties and do what's best for the nation. I believe that if you give me an opportunity, I will try to do my best. On his likely return date. I am working hard. If I can play the Duleep Trophy, I can certainly play T20Is” Shami said.
He further said that if he is fit to play in the Duleep Trophy, he would have also played in the Asia Cup as well.
"I am working hard. If I can play the Duleep Trophy, I can certainly play T20Is. "I don't have any expectations. I believe in my own abilities — if you give me an opportunity, I will give my absolute best. Selection is not in my hands. I am ready to play in all formats. If I can play for five days in the Duleep Trophy, there shouldn't be any discussion about whether I can play international cricket” added the Indian pacer.
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Shami Played His Last T20I Earlier This Year
Shami has been struggling with a few injury concerns in recent times. He has faced problems with his knee and ankle that kept him out of the Australia and England Test series. He played the ICC Champions Trophy for India, taking nine wickets in five matches. He played his last T20I for India against England earlier this year at the Wankhede Stadium.
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