The uncertainty surrounding Mohammed Shami’s continued omission from the Indian Test setup has only deepened, with the veteran pacer once again missing out on selection for the upcoming two-match home Test series against South Africa. Shami last represented India in March this year, and although he has been turning out regularly for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, the selectors have maintained their distance from drafting him back into the national squad.

Shami has publicly stated that the team management has not communicated clearly about the reasons behind his exclusion. But a recent report, quoting an unnamed BCCI official, paints a different picture, suggesting that the fast bowler is not revealing the full story.

According to the official, the selectors and the support staff have been in “constant touch” with Shami over the past several months. The board, in fact, was reportedly eager to include him in India’s Test squad for the England tour earlier this year. To assess his readiness for the physical demands of red-ball cricket, Shami was asked to participate in a tour game for India A against the England Lions in Canterbury or Northampton.

ALSO READ: Suresh Raina Issues Strong Warning To CSK Amid Ravindra Jadeja Trade Speculation

The report claims that Shami declined the request, saying he still needed more time to build up his workload and should not be considered for the assignment.

“There have been multiple conversations between the selectors, the support staff, and Shami. The panel was desperate to have him in England, especially with Jasprit Bumrah’s workload limitations. Any team would want a bowler of Shami’s quality in those conditions,” a senior BCCI official told PTI.

The official added that the narrative of “zero communication” is inaccurate and that the sports science team has been regularly evaluating Shami’s medical reports, including concerns over whether his body can endure the demands of Test cricket post-surgery.

ALSO READ: Mohammad Kaif Suggests MS Dhoni Could Approve Blockbuster Trade Involving Ravindra Jadeja

Shami has skipped the fourth round of the Ranji Trophy, but his performances in the first three matches were sharp. He bowled 93 overs and claimed 15 wickets. However, questions persist about his long-spell endurance and sustained pace, with reports suggesting he frequently takes breaks and averages around 130 kmph.

As India move ahead with a new-look pace group, the mystery around Shami’s future only grows deeper.