“They do not want him in the ODI team”: Mohammed Shami’s childhood coach slams Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel

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The exclusion of Mohammed Shami from India’s squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand has sparked sharp criticism, with the veteran pacer’s childhood coach openly questioning the decision-making of the selectors. The three-match series begins on January 11, but Shami’s name was notably absent from the 15-man squad announced on Saturday.

Shami, 35, had been widely expected to return to the ODI setup after delivering an impressive performance in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier 50-over domestic competition. His omission, therefore, has come as a major surprise to fans and former players.

Reacting strongly to the snub, Shami’s childhood coach Badruddin Siddique expressed frustration at what he sees as a lack of clarity and fairness in the selection process overseen by Ajit Agarkar, who currently heads the national selection committee.

“What more can a player do? How many more wickets should the player take?” the coach told India Today, voicing disbelief at the decision. His remarks reflect a broader concern among Shami’s supporters, who believe the pacer has done everything required at the domestic level to earn a recall.

The coach further suggested that Shami’s exclusion could signal a worrying shift in the selectors’ plans, hinting that the door to India’s ODI side may be closing for the seasoned fast bowler.

Shami’s numbers in the Vijay Hazare Trophy underline why his omission has raised eyebrows. Representing Bengal, he has picked up 11 wickets in just five matches, consistently troubling batters with pace, seam movement, and accuracy. His performances were seen as a clear statement of intent, particularly after injury setbacks earlier in the year.

Despite this, Shami did not find a place in the Shubman Gill-led ODI squad, leading many to question whether domestic performances are still being given due weight in selection decisions.

Shami’s coach did not hide his concern that the snub could effectively mark the end of the pacer’s ODI journey. “This means that they do not want him in the ODI team. He has a lot to give,” he said, emphasizing that Shami’s experience and skill remain valuable assets.

Having been a key figure in India’s white-ball success over the years, Shami’s potential sidelining raises questions about how the team plans to transition from seasoned campaigners to younger talent, especially with major tournaments on the horizon.

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The decision to leave out Shami is further magnified by the fact that Jasprit Bumrah has also been rested for the New Zealand ODIs. In their absence, India’s pace attack will be led by Mohammed Siraj, alongside youngsters Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana.

All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been named as the fifth seam option, highlighting the selectors’ preference for a younger, more flexible pace unit.

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