With Temba Bavuma returning to lead South Africa in the upcoming two-Test series against India, attention has also turned to India’s squad — and particularly to the uncertain availability of senior pacer Mohammed Shami.
Shami, who has been out of international action since the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, has found himself at the center of a public disagreement with Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar over his fitness status. Agarkar recently stated that the medical team does not consider Shami fit enough for international cricket at the moment, a claim the pacer strongly refuted.
Shami insisted he is “match-fit and ready to play,” having already featured in domestic fixtures such as the Duleep Trophy and Ranji Trophy for Bengal. “It’s not my responsibility to give an update or ask for one. My job is to go to the NCA, prepare, and play matches,” Shami had said in response to Agarkar’s comments.
However, despite his domestic appearances, the BCCI’s medical team reportedly remains cautious, and selectors have not yet cleared him for international return. The board has deployed selector Rudra Pratap Singh (RP Singh) to speak with Shami in Kolkata in an attempt to resolve the communication gap and ensure clarity before the India vs South Africa series begins.
As things stand, Shami’s inclusion in the Test squad is uncertain. His recovery and selection will depend on fitness clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru and the final approval of the selection committee.
The India vs South Africa Test series begins on November 14 in Kolkata, followed by the second Test in Guwahati from November 22. With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj leading the pace attack, India could still look to bring Shami back if he proves full match fitness — especially given his track record against South Africa.
For now, all eyes are on the BCCI’s next squad announcement, where it will become clear whether Mohammed Shami makes his much-anticipated comeback or continues to remain on the sidelines.
