Correspondent, 21 October: As soon as the "Agarkar out, Pragyan Ojha in" development occurred, fast bowler Mohammed Shami shared his first reaction, speaking in detail about his comeback efforts and expressing displeasure over his remarks being misrepresented. "When someone says or acts wrongly, I also reply with anger," Shami explicitly stated.
Shami has been working tirelessly to make a return to the Indian team. Discussions regarding his comeback have started afresh after Bhuvneshwar Kumar returned to the Indian squad after four years for the T20 International series against New Zealand.
Shami had strengthened his claim to secure a spot in the team by taking 37 wickets in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season. However, the selection committee did not give him an opportunity in the series against New Zealand. Additionally, the Bengal team took the field without Shami for their second match against Services in Elite Group 'C' of the 2026-27 Ranji season.
Addressing his absence from that match, he explained, "The pitch was not supporting bowlers. I cannot play as a batsman, so I make decisions based on pitch conditions. I decided not to play this match so that young players should step forward to get maximum experience."
Stating that playing domestic cricket is beneficial just like the previous season, Shami mentioned he is preparing for the IPL and the World Cup. "I want to play the 2027 ODI World Cup and I am preparing hard for it. I bowl for an hour and a half in the nets and try to give my best by taking full care of my fitness. When everyone is thinking about playing in the World Cup, then why not me?" he asked.
Expressing happiness over Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return, Shami said, "Bhuvi should have returned to the team much earlier. He was performing well consistently. He never stopped playing cricket and gave his best in every match." Speaking about his own game, he noted, "I am performing consistently well and am at the peak of my career. Although I cannot say when and where I will get to play, my fitness is 100% and I just want to keep playing."
Shami also expressed regret that his statements were being distorted. "My statements are being presented unnecessarily and wrongly, this should not happen," he remarked. Clarifying his situation regarding the selection committee, he stated, "I am not currently in the Indian team or the central contract. Therefore, no selection committee has contacted me yet; why would anyone talk to me? I just want to do my work and hope to get a chance to play again."
