New Delhi, Nov 13 – India’s Test squad for the upcoming series against South Africa has left a key name missing. Senior pacer Mohammed Shami was not picked, even though he’s been in great form for Bengal, taking 15 wickets in just three Ranji Trophy matches, including a five‑wicket haul against Gujarat.
Shami has not represented India since the 2025 Champions Trophy win. His continued absence from the national set‑up has sparked questions about whether the selectors are moving on from him. Former India batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, who retired earlier this year, called for an open conversation between Shami and the board. “Selectors and the team management need a clear, honest dialogue with him,” Pujara said. “If they’re not planning to pick him, he can decide whether to continue in domestic cricket or focus on the IPL.”
Pujara added that Shami should know the team’s expectations and that the communication from the management should be transparent. He explained that players like Shami, who still play in the IPL, can decide whether to retire from international cricket or keep playing domestic games.
India’s skipper Shubman Gill offered a different outlook. In a pre‑match press conference, he said the selectors are the ones best placed to explain the decision. “There are no many bowlers of Shami’s quality,” Gill said. “We have to consider the current performers such as Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna.” He admitted that leaving a player of Shami’s caliber out is never easy, but added “we need to plan ahead.”
The two‑match Test series in Kolkata will be followed by a three‑game ODI series. Fans will focus on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who are battling for starts ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. Rohit emerged as Player of the Series in Australia last month, scoring a century and a fifty. Kohli, who had a rough spell in Sydney, is hoping to rebuild form.
Pujara highlighted the importance of every match in building rhythm for both men. “The older the batsman, the more they need good form and consistency,” he said. “Each series, each match, becomes critical for them.”
The action starts on Nov 14 at 9:30 a.m. IST – the first Test of South Africa’s tour is live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.
Keep tabs on India’s pitch battle, Shami’s omission debate, and the big names in the backyard as the series unfolds.
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