Mohammed Shami has said he remains fully committed to representing India despite being left out of the BCCI central contracts for 2025–26. The 35-year-old fast bowler made it clear that his focus is on using every bit of ability he still possesses and staying prepared for national duty.

 

Speaking at the News18 Rising Bharat Summit, Shami stressed that an athlete must not allow potential to go unused and must continue pushing forward regardless of setbacks. His comments came shortly after his omission from the latest contract list, where he had previously held a Grade A position.

 

Shami’s exclusion follows a season in which he did not feature in any international match during the assessment window between October 2024 and September 2025. His last appearance for India was in the Champions Trophy final on March 9, 2025. Ongoing fitness concerns after major surgeries and doubts over his capacity to handle sustained red-ball workloads were reported factors behind both his absence from recent Test squads and the contract list. At the News18 Rising Bharat Summit, he said,

 

“When it comes to representing my country, I’d give everything I have. I never want to look back and regret leaving even a fraction of my potential untapped."

 

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Domestic numbers strengthen his case

 

Despite the contract setback, Shami has been active in domestic cricket. Representing Bengal in the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 season, he delivered a career-best 8/90 against Jammu and Kashmir in the semi-final. Across 12 innings, he has collected 36 wickets, placing him among the leading bowlers in the competition.

 

In the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26, he claimed 15 wickets in seven innings at an economy rate of 6.10. He is also set to feature in IPL 2026 after being traded from Sunrisers Hyderabad to Lucknow Super Giants. His consistent domestic performances have kept him in competitive rhythm even as international opportunities have been limited.

 

Earlier in the Ranji season, he reiterated his readiness for a return. To the reporters, he said,

 

“A lot of hard work is there, and I believe luck too plays a part. Every person wants to play for the country. So, I am ready for that (again)."

 

Selection dynamics and transition phase

 

The BCCI’s current contract cycle reflects what appears to be a transition phase, with emphasis reportedly shifting toward younger fast bowlers. Questions persist regarding Shami’s ability to manage the physical demands of five-day cricket, particularly ahead of future overseas assignments.

 

“My motivation is to stay fit and be available for the Indian team at all times. On the ground, I will continue to perform, and the rest is in the selectors’ hands."