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The return of veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami to the Test team appears increasingly difficult. The inclusion of young fast bowler Aaqib Nabi in the squad to replace the injured Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka indicates that the selection committee is now prioritizing young players who have consistently performed well in domestic cricket.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) named Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Aaqib Nabi in the squad after Bumrah’s injury. This decision has sparked speculation in cricket circles that veteran bowler Mohammed Shami is currently not on the selectors’ priority list.

Bumrah’s injury became the reason for the change

Jasprit Bumrah recently played in the ODI series against England, but a knee injury ruled him out of the Test squad for the Sri Lanka tour. In his absence, many cricket experts expected veteran Mohammed Shami to return to the team, but the selectors placed their faith in young Aaqib Nabi.

Shami’s return still in limbo

Mohammed Shami played his last Test match for India in 2023, while his last ODI was against New Zealand in 2025. After a long injury layoff, Shami returned to domestic cricket and consistently performed impressively, but despite this, he failed to secure a place in the national team.

Excellent performance in domestic cricket

In the last Ranji Trophy season, Mohammed Shami took 37 wickets in seven matches. He averaged 16.72 , bowled 50 maiden overs , and took three five-wicket hauls. His best figures were 8 for 90 .

Meanwhile, Aaqib Nabi caught the attention of selectors last season with his 60 wickets in the Ranji Trophy. His consistent performances were rewarded with a call-up to the Indian Test team.

Clear message from the selectors

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has previously clarified that returning to Test cricket requires not only experience but also full fitness. Many experts view Aqib Nabi’s selection as a sign that the Indian team is now looking to give more opportunities to young players who have consistently performed well in domestic cricket.

What will be Shami’s next challenge now?

If Mohammed Shami wants to regain his place in the Indian Test team, he will need to perform consistently in the upcoming domestic tournaments, especially the Duleep Trophy and first-class cricket, and also prove his full fitness.

With the growing number of young players making strong claims in the Indian fast bowling department, it’s becoming more challenging for experienced players to return to the team. Therefore, Mohammed Shami’s performance in the upcoming domestic season will determine whether he will once again wear the Indian Test jersey.