“Just An Excuse”: Ajit Agarkar & BCCI Accused Of Ignoring Mohammed Shami Again

Veteran India pacer Mohammed Shami has been omitted from the squad for the upcoming series despite strong domestic form, prompting his coach and critics to accuse Ajit Agarkar-led selectors of relying on excuses rather than merit. The controversy has broadened into a debate on selection transparency, fitness benchmarks and senior-player loyalty within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

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“Just An Excuse”: Ajit Agarkar & BCCI Accused Of Ignoring Mohammed Shami Again
Sports • 49 days ago • 3515 views

“Just An Excuse”: Ajit Agarkar & BCCI Accused Of Ignoring Mohammed Shami Again

IN SHORTVeteran India pacer Mohammed Shami has been omitted from the squad for the upcoming series despite strong domestic form, prompting his coach and critics to accuse Ajit Agarkar-led selectors of relying on excuses rather than merit. The controversy has broadened into a debate on selection transparency, fitness benchmarks and senior-player loyalty within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

TL;DR

  • Shami took 15 wickets in his first three Ranji Trophy matches this season yet was still ignored by the selection committee.
  • His coach alleged that BCCI’s claims of fitness concern are “just an excuse” and that the decision appears pre-decided.
  • Agarkar responded publicly saying “If he was fit, he would be in the team” but offered no further detail.
  • The omission affects Shami’s chances of returning to the Test side after last playing for India in 2023.
  • Analysts highlight a wider issue of senior players’ futures and selection policy clarity in Indian cricket.
  • The row adds pressure on the selectors ahead of the India vs South Africa series and raises questions over meritocracy in sport.

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