Did Gambhir factor weigh heavily against Shami’s inclusion in Test team?

Mohammed Shami continues to be overlooked for India’s Test squad despite proving his fitness and form in the three Ranji Trophy matches he played for Bengal this season. The seasoned pacer, who has been one of India’s most consistent red-ball performers over the years, finds himself on the sidelines even as the team management experiments with younger fast bowlers.

According to sources, Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir is reportedly not in favour of recalling Shami to the Test setup at this stage. The reasons for this stance remain unclear, but insiders suggest that Gambhir prefers backing a younger pace battery to build a long-term bowling unit.

Those close to the development also revealed that Shami himself is uncertain about his place in the current team environment. This unfortunate situation has left many surprised, considering Shami’s proven match-winning ability and vast experience in overseas and home conditions alike.

Shami isn’t playing the fourth round of the Ranji Trophy as he is expected to be busy with some personal work. But then, what’s the point of performing in domestic games when the selectors and the team management are not ready to consider his name for the Test team? Even if there is a possibility of Shami being taken back into the squad, it’s likely that he would be made to warm the reserve benches.

Having found a reliable pacer in Mohammed Siraj to partner Jasprit Bumrah, the team management doesn’t seem keen to accommodate Shami at this stage. What’s even more surprising is that his Bengal teammate Akash Deep has earned a place in the Test squad, while Shami — who can walk into the playing XI of any team in the world — continues to be ignored.