As Team India gears up for the first Test of the Freedom Trophy 2025 against South Africa at Eden Gardens, the absence of star pacer Mohammed Shami has become one of the most discussed topics in Indian cricket circles.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, India captain Shubman Gill offered a clear perspective on Shami’s exclusion, emphasizing the importance of long-term planning and squad balance.
“A bowler of Shami bhai’s quality — there aren’t many like him. But we also have to plan ahead, especially for overseas tours,” Gill said. “Sometimes it’s very difficult; players like Shami have to miss out.”
Gill, who will be leading India in a full-fledged home Test series for the first time, added that the selectors are focusing on the future while maintaining workload balance among senior fast bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep.
When asked if Shami remains part of India’s long-term Test plans, Gill smiled and replied,
“The selectors would be able to give you a better answer to that.”
Mohammed Shami’s Recent Form
Despite his omission, Shami’s recent performances in domestic cricket have been outstanding. The veteran seamer picked up 15 wickets in two Ranji Trophy matches, including a five-wicket haul against Gujarat and a destructive 3 for 4 spell against Uttarakhand — a statement of form and fitness following his heel surgery.
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly recently voiced his support for Shami, saying,
“There’s no reason why Shami can’t keep playing Tests, ODIs, and T20s for India. He’s fit, bowling beautifully, and still one of the best with the red ball.”
Selectors’ Standpoint
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has maintained that Shami’s omission is part of the BCCI’s workload management policy, as India prepares for an extended international calendar.
Agarkar’s panel is prioritizing rotation and fitness management, especially with younger pacers stepping up in domestic and A-team cricket.
Shami’s record against South Africa, however, remains exceptional — 14 wickets in three Tests during their last encounter, including a match-winning five-for at Centurion.
Transition Phase for India’s Pace Attack
With India’s pace attack undergoing transition, Shami’s absence from the South Africa Tests highlights the team’s balancing act between experience and future readiness.
Eden Gardens, a venue where Shami has produced several iconic performances, could have been an ideal setting for his return. But as Shubman Gill emphasized, the focus now is on building for the next cycle — one where India’s new generation of fast bowlers must step up and carry the legacy forward.
