Shami doubtful for England Tests

India to announce squad on May 16

Senior India pacer Mohammed Shami is reportedly not fully fit and now appears doubtful for selection ahead of the upcoming five-Test series against England, starting on June 20.

With the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee set to announce the squad on May 16, concerns over Shami's recovery and lack of match readiness have raised alarm bells.

The 34-year-old has been grappling with fitness issues since sustaining a calf muscle injury during the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Although he made a brief return in white-ball cricket during the home T20I series against England, the right-arm pacer has not featured in a single Test match since the injury.

According to Indian media reports, the veteran fast bowler is currently struggling in training sessions—unable to complete his run-ups, tiring quickly in the nets, and lacking the zip that once made him a feared red-ball bowler.

"He is not in rhythm and often returns to the dressing room after short spells," a BCCI source confirmed.

While performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) are not typically a deciding factor for Test selection, Shami's current form in the tournament has been underwhelming—managing only six wickets in nine matches.

India keenly felt Shami's absence during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy earlier this year in Australia, where Jasprit Bumrah struggled without consistent support from the other end.

Although Shami delivered a respectable performance in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy—picking up nine wickets, including a five-wicket haul against Bangladesh—his red-ball record in England remains modest.

He has claimed 42 wickets in 14 Tests on English soil at an average of 40.50, without registering a single five-wicket haul.

It is pertinent to mention that the five-match Test series between England and India will begin at Headingley, Leeds, on June 20. The remaining matches are scheduled at Edgbaston, Lord's, Old Trafford, and The Oval.