Mohammed Shami no longer appears to be part of India’s long-term plans, according to a report by Sportstar, with the selectors identifying a new group of fast bowlers they intend to develop for the next World Test Championship cycle and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The latest development comes after Shami was omitted from India’s squad for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, extending his absence from the national side despite his efforts to return following injury.
Selectors shift focus to the future
The report states that the selection committee has shortlisted a pool of 15 young fast bowlers across formats who are expected to form the foundation of India’s pace attack in the coming years. Shami does not feature in that group, signalling a clear shift towards investing in younger players through sustained international exposure.
The decision follows an encouraging domestic return from the experienced seamer. After working his way back from injury, Shami featured in the Ranji Trophy, bowled extended spells and claimed 37 wickets in an effort to push for an international recall.
Pace attack enters a new phase
India’s transition also comes at a time when its fast-bowling resources are evolving. Jasprit Bumrah remains the leader of the attack, but his workload is expected to be managed carefully following multiple injury setbacks, while Mohammed Siraj is among the senior bowlers expected to shoulder greater responsibility as the next generation is introduced.
“Prince Yadav is also a good bowler, along with Gurnoor Brar and Mohsin Khan. These three should not be written off. They could make the World Cup squad as 15 months is still a long way off. But Shami was an outstanding bowler. I am surprised the management has turned him into a nobody,” former India Captain Kris Srikkanth said on Star Sports.
India’s latest selection strategy indicates the focus has firmly shifted towards building a pace attack for the future, with opportunities increasingly expected to go to emerging fast bowlers as the team prepares for its next World Test Championship cycle and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
