Manoj Tiwary Criticizes BCCI Selectors Over Ignoring Mohammed Shami Despite Domestic Success
Manoj Tiwary criticizes BCCI selectors over repeated snubbing of Mohammed Shami.
Former Indian Cricketer Manoj Tiwary has openly criticized the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors over their handling of Veteran Pacer Mohammed Shami's repeated exclusion from the national squad despite consistent performances in the Ranji Trophy. Tiwary questioned the selectors’ apparent lack of communication with Shami and expressed concerns about the absence of transparency and trust towards the senior bowler.
Shami, who has been a regular wicket-taker for Bengal in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, was notably omitted from India’s Test and ODI squads, including the series against South Africa. Tiwary highlighted that the selectors failed to maintain transparency with Shami about the reasons for his non-selection, which seems to create a trust deficit within the team setup. He emphasized that the selectors and team management should engage directly with senior players, especially someone with Shami’s experience.
The BCCI's chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, stated there was no update on Shami's fitness, but Tiwary questioned this explanation. He pointed out that it is the responsibility of trainers, physios, and team management to keep the selectors informed and urged that at least a phone call should be made to the player to clarify his fitness status. Tiwary praised Shami’s long-standing contributions to Indian cricket and argued that maintaining open channels of communication is crucial for team morale.
Also Read: Shreyas Iyer’s Oxygen Level Dropped to 50 After Injury, Doubtful for South Africa ODIs
Earlier, Tiwary also criticized how team management handled the exits of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket, suggesting that a narrative of transition was pushed to phase out these veterans despite their willingness to continue playing. He believes such approaches harm the team, especially when there are capable players waiting for opportunities.
The controversy surrounding Mohammed Shami’s exclusion continues to generate debate on the balance between managing player fitness, squad dynamics, and the need for clear communication by the selectors—especially with the Indian cricket team undergoing phases of transition.
Also Read: WPL 2026 Set for Early January Kickoff as BCCI Finalizes Tentative Schedule
