Has Mohammed Shami played his last test match for Team India?

Few names in Indian cricket evoke the thrill of sheer pace like Mohammed Shami. Ever since his sensational debut against the West Indies in 2013 where he claimed nine wickets in the match, Shami has been a cornerstone of India’s bowling attack. Known for his unerring accuracy and seam movement, he became one of India’s most reliable match-winners in Test cricket.

But with brilliance came battles mostly with injuries. The 35-year-old pacer has endured multiple lay-offs that often stalled his momentum, and now, another setback seems to have struck.

Also Read: Mohammed Shami keeps his Test comeback hopes alive with splendid Ranji Trophy show

Omission From South Africa Tour

The BCCI on Wednesday announced India’s squad for the two-Test series against South Africa beginning November 14, and Shami’s name was conspicuously missing both from the senior team and the India A squad. Despite performing well in domestic cricket for Bengal, where he picked over 15 wickets in three Ranji games, Shami wasn’t considered for selection.

Sources indicate that selectors are uncertain about his fitness for long Test spells, despite his recent return to form. Shami, India’s highest wicket-taker in the 2023 World Cup and joint-highest in the 2025 Champions Trophy, last played international cricket in March 2025.

The Road Ahead

With Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Akash Deep leading the pace battery, India’s Test attack appears settled for now. Still, for fans, Shami’s exclusion feels like the silence of a once thunderous storm, a reminder that even legends sometimes have to wait for one more spell under the sun.