‘You Don’t Pick Me For India? I’ll Play Domestic’ - Shami’s Strong Message After Asia Cup Snub

Despite playing the 2025 Champions Trophy, the future has never been more uncertain for Mohammed Shami, who finds himself completely ousted from both Tests and T20Is at the age of 34. The veteran was first overlooked for the England Tests due to concerns over fitness, and, more recently, his name was not even discussed for the Asia Cup selection.

At this point, it seems like ODIs are the last hope for Shami, who, not too long ago, was an all-format gun for the country.

Amidst constant non-selections, people have wondered if Shami is close to retirement, but the 34-year-old is far from done. 

“If someone has a problem, tell me. Whose life will become better if I take retirement?” Shami told News24, as reported by the Times of India.

“The day I get bored, I will leave. You don’t pick me, don’t play me, I don’t care. But I will keep working hard.”

The right-arm bowler asserted that not getting selected for India will not stop him from working hard and playing cricket. He is slated to play in the Duleep Trophy for East Zone.

“You don’t pick me in internationals, I will play domestic. I will keep playing somewhere or the other. Retirement and such decisions are made when you start feeling bored, when you don’t want to wake up at 7 AM for a Test,” Shami said.

“That is not the time for me now. I’ll be up at 5 if you want me to,” he added.

Shami has struggled with fitness ever since sustaining a major Achilles injury post the 2023 World Cup, but the 34-year-old revealed that he’s feeling great currently and is working extensively on working long spells. It remains to be seen if the veteran will be picked for the home Tests against West Indies and South Africa.

“Touchwood, it is better now,” Shami said of his fitness. 

“I have trained, increased my skills, practised batting, fielding, gym work — everything. My focus is on getting rhythm and being able to bowl long spells,” he explained.