Former India opener Aakash Chopra claims that he has personally met with the selectors and that all five members of the selection committee agree on Mohammed Shami’s likely return for India’s forthcoming tour of New Zealand in 2026. The tour consists of five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Tests.
Mohammad Shami was not named to India’s ODI squad for the New Zealand series, which was announced on January 3, 2026. He was also dropped from the Test squad owing to an ankle ailment. However, Shami was included to India’s T20I team for the same tour. On March 9, 2025, he made his last international appearance in the Champions Trophy 2025 final.
The debate about Shami’s selection gained traction after Bhuvneshwar Kumar was recalled to India’s T20I squad for the five-match series against New Zealand, as well as the announcement that Ajit Agarkar is no longer the chairman of selectors. Aakash Chopra answered the speculation immediately.
Why does Aakash Chopra think Shami’s removal was a collective decision?
Aakash Chopra fundamental argument is that the selection committee works as a group and that no single person, including the chairman, can unilaterally decide who is chosen or excluded. He emphasised that blaming Shami’s absence simply on Agarkar’s influence would be an oversimplification of how the committee functions. Aakash Chopra also stated that negotiations over Shami’s inclusion in the ODI team are ongoing, but he made clear that any such inclusion would not be a direct result of Agarkar’s departure.
Aakash Chopra also mentioned a meeting with RP Singh in Lucknow when discussing the issue, although he was careful not to reveal any information revealed during that chat.
What does Shami’s ODI record suggest about his eligibility for selection?
Mohammad Shami’s record in ODI cricket places him among India’s most efficient speed bowlers in the game. Across 108 ODIs, he has taken 206 wickets at an economy rate of 5.58, demonstrating his consistency and control over time.
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The BCCI’s attitude on Shami’s near future was also discussed, with the board stating to him, “This is your last opportunity,” in reference to the 2027 World Cup cycle. This strengthens the argument that the forthcoming New Zealand series could be an important opportunity for Shami to make his case for ODI selection.
Shami’s fitness and availability as of October 2026 are not validated by the available evidence, and no official confirmation on his current injury condition has been provided for this article.
Sonam Singh is a passionate cricket writer and sports content creator who brings the latest cricket news, match updates, player stories, and important developments from the world of cricket. Her writing focuses on making cricket information simple, engaging, and easy to follow for fans.
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