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Irfan Pathan's Shami Defense: Why the Selector Snub Raises Big Questions

Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan has publicly come to the defense of Mohammed Shami after the experienced pacer was left out of India's ODI squad. Pathan expressed confusion over the selection, especially given Shami's proven track record and recent workload. He suggested that Shami should now channel his efforts into performing dominantly in the upcoming IPL season. Pathan believes a strong IPL showing would make it impossible for selectors to continue ignoring him.

Key Points: Irfan Pathan Questions Mohammed Shami ODI Squad Omission

  • Irfan Pathan questions the rationale behind dropping a bowler with over 400 international wickets
  • Pathan argues Shami's fitness is proven after bowling 200 overs post-injury
  • He advises Shami to focus on the IPL to forcefully reclaim his national spot
  • The veteran pacer has been sidelined since India's 2025 Champions Trophy victory
2 min read

'Only selectors know what they are thinking', says Irfan after Shami's snub from ODI squad

Irfan Pathan defends Mohammed Shami after ODI squad snub, questioning fitness concerns and urging the pacer to prove himself in the IPL.

'Only selectors know what they are thinking', says Irfan after Shami's snub from ODI squad
"Only the selection committee knows what they are thinking. - Irfan Pathan"

New Delhi, Jan 4

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan threw his support behind the experienced fast bowler Mohammed Shami after his omission from ODI squad despite his stellar performance in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy.

Shami's international future has come under renewed scrutiny after the veteran pacer was once again left out of India's squad, this time for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, announced on Saturday.

The omission marked another setback for the 35-year-old, who has not played for India since being part of the Champions Trophy-winning squad in 2025. Shami has remained on the sidelines despite returning to competitive cricket after an injury layoff, missing selection for the Test series against England, West Indies and South Africa, as well as the recent ODI series against Australia.

"The biggest talking point is Mohammed Shami. What is his future? He's not someone who came yesterday, played a few matches and left. He has taken 450-500 international wickets, which is a huge number. If you have taken more than 400 wickets and then you get dropped, and questions are raised about your fitness, that happens with everyone. As long as you play cricket, you have to keep proving yourself," Pathan said on his YouTube channel.

Irfan also questioned the rationale behind concerns about Shami's fitness, noting the workload he has already shouldered since returning to action.

"Shami has already bowled 200 overs. After bowling 200 overs, if fitness is the question, it has already been demonstrated. What more improvement is needed? Only the selection committee knows what they are thinking. If I were him, I would go and play the IPL and create havoc. I would take the new ball and perform at such a level.

"Domestic cricket performances are discussed, but when the IPL comes, and you show your old rhythm and fitness, then no one can ignore you. The whole world watches the IPL. If you perform there, you make your place in the squad again. I believe his doors should not be closed," he added.

India are set to host New Zealand in a three-match ODI series starting January 11, which will be followed by a five-match T20I series.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Sarah B
As a cricket fan, this is confusing. On one hand, we talk about workload management for Bumrah. On the other, we drop a bowler who is proving his fitness in domestic cricket. The selection criteria seems inconsistent. Hope Shami smashes it in the IPL and forces his way back!
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Rohit P
Yaar, this is so frustrating! Shami bhai is a legend. Remember his World Cup performances? Pure class. Selectors should have at least given him a farewell series if they think he's past it. Just dropping him like this feels disrespectful. 😞
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Ananya R
While I love Shami, maybe we need to look forward? We have Siraj, Bumrah, and exciting young pacers like Arshdeep. At 35, managing a fast bowler's body is tough. Perhaps the selectors are planning for the next World Cup cycle. Irfan's IPL point is valid though.
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Karthik V
"Only selectors know what they are thinking" – that sums it up! The lack of transparency is the real issue. If they have a plan, communicate it. Fans and former players are left guessing. Shami deserves better communication, if not a place in the squad.
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Priya S
Fully agree with Irfan bhai. The IPL is his stage now. If he performs there, no selector can ignore him. He has the skill and the heart. Go show them, Shami! 🔥 #RespectForShami

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