Here's Why Mohammed Shami Isn't In Playing XI For Upcoming India-New Zealand Tests

India, currently preparing for the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has announced its 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand.

There have been some alterations to the lineup, with Jasprit Bumrah being named as vice-captain.

Photo Credit: PTI

In a surprising decision, the selectors chose not to include Mohammed Shami in the squad. The seasoned pacer has been sidelined since the 2023 ODI World Cup final in November of last year. He underwent surgery following an injury sustained during the tournament and will be looking to make his comeback in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Why did Mohammed Shami miss out?

As the matches will take place in India, Rohit Sharma is expected to rely heavily on the spin department, which includes R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav.

Meanwhile, the pace attack will comprise Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep. The spin-friendly pitches in India have afforded Shami additional time for recovery. Yash Dayal, who earned his maiden Test call-up for the Bangladesh series, was also omitted from the squad.

India did not designate a vice-captain for the Bangladesh series, but Bumrah has previously held that role and even captained the side once. Additionally, Mayank Yadav, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, and Nitish Kumar Reddu have been named as travelling reserves.

Fans are eager to see Shami return in November. His fastest delivery to date was clocked at 153.2 km/h against Australia in the 2014 series at the MCG. His success lies in his wristwork, with a smooth run-up and action. His lethal wicket-taking ability, coupled with his reverse swing, makes him a formidable bowler at times.

India currently tops the WTC standings, while New Zealand is in sixth place. Securing victory in the series will strengthen India's position in the table ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with hopes of reaching their third WTC final.