Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami stated that he is fully fit and prepared to play in all forms and that he has no regrets over not being selected for the Indian team in the Asia Cup.
Shami, 35, was left off of India’s 15-man squad for the Asia Cup, which will take place in the United Arab Emirates next month. His most recent appearance came in May at the IPL 2025.
”I don’t blame anyone for non-selection or complain about it. If I’m right for the team, select me; if I’m not, then I have no issues with it.
”Selectors have the responsibility to do what’s best for Team India. I have a belief in my abilities that if and when I’m granted an opportunity, I’ll give my best. I’m working hard,” he told News24 Sports.
Shami stated that he is concentrating on playing domestic cricket to support his claim for a comeback and is not currently considering playing international cricket.
”Right now, I don’t have any hopes (about making a comeback to the Indian team). If they pick me, I will try to perform and give my 100 percent. Whether they play me or not, that’s not in my hands.
”If I am playing the Duleep Trophy, five-day cricket, that certainly I can play T20 cricket and all formats. I was called to Bengaluru, and I have cleared the fitness test, and now I am ready to go back,” Shami added.
Shami responded as follows when asked if he is thinking about retiring: ”If someone has a problem tell me. Have I become a rock in someone’s life that they want me to retire? The day I get bored, I will retire. If you don’t play me there (Indian team), I will play domestic cricket.”
According to the fast bowler, winning the ODI World Cup is his dream. ”I want to be part of the Indian team which wins the World Cup. We came very close in the 2023 World Cup.”
According to Shami, his fitness issues have been resolved, and he is ready for the forthcoming season.
”For the last two months I have trained, increased my skills, shed weight and increased the load as well. Let’s see the result that I get now. My focus is on getting rhythm and being able to bowl long spells. I have practiced batting and fielding as well and done a lot of gym. Everything is comfortable now.”
