Row over Australia ODIs snub continues: Mohammed Shami hits back at Ajit Agarkar

Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami has responded sharply to BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar amid ongoing discussions surrounding his omission from India’s white-ball squads for the upcoming series against Australia.

The controversy began when Agarkar stated during the squad announcement that he had “no update” on Shami’s fitness status. In response, the veteran fast bowler took a subtle jab at the selection committee, asserting that his participation for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy was proof enough of his fitness. Shami further remarked that it wasn’t his responsibility to keep the selectors informed about his condition.

When Agarkar was again questioned about the situation, he clarified that Shami would have been picked for the national team if he had been deemed fully fit to play for India.

Shami, however, stood firm on his stance. Speaking to reporters after the third day’s play in Bengal’s Ranji Trophy clash against Uttarakhand, he said, “Let him say whatever he wants. You’ve seen how I bowled — it’s all there in front of you.”

Backing his words with action, Shami produced a devastating spell of fast bowling, claiming 4 for 38 in 24.4 overs to propel Bengal to a commanding eight-wicket victory in their Group C match on Saturday.

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Starting the final day at 165 for 2 with captain Kunal Chandela (68*) and Bhupen Lalwani (12*), Uttarakhand’s resistance crumbled once Shami found his rhythm. The seasoned pacer trapped Chandela leg-before for 72 to break a promising stand, before dismantling the lower order with a fiery post-lunch burst that saw him remove Abhay Negi, Janmejay Joshi, and Rajan Kumar.

From a solid 173 for 2, Uttarakhand collapsed to 265 all out — losing their last eight wickets for just 92 runs. Apart from Prashant Chopra (82) and Chandela, none of the batters managed to put up a fight.

Chasing 156 for victory, Bengal coasted home in just 29.3 overs, led by skipper Abhimanyu Easwaran, who scored an unbeaten 71 off 82 balls with six boundaries, guiding his team to a comfortable win.

With both his words and performance, Mohammed Shami has made his message clear — he’s fit, firing, and ready for India’s call once again.