Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has strongly responded to chief selector Ajit Agarkar’s remarks concerning his fitness, especially after his formidable performance for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy match against Uttarakhand.
The controversy began after Shami was omitted from India’s ODI squad for the Australia series, with Agarkar publicly stating that fitness was a barrier to his inclusion.
Addressing reporters at Eden Gardens after the third day’s play, a resolute Shami declared, “Let him say whatever he wants. You have seen how I bowled. It is all in front of your eyes.”
Agarkar had previously clarified his stance, expressing a willingness to consider Shami for the national team once he met the necessary fitness criteria. “If Shami were here, I would give him an answer. If he is fit, why would we not have a bowler like Shami?” Agarkar had commented.
He further elaborated on their interactions, stating, “I have had multiple chats with him. Over the last six to eight months, what we have found out is that he was not fit. If he stays fit over the next few months, the story might be different, but he was not fit to be picked for the England tour.”
However, Shami’s recent outing in the Ranji Trophy opener painted a different picture. He showcased his bowling prowess by taking crucial wickets for Bengal, notably claiming three wickets in a single over to secure a vital first-innings lead against Uttarakhand.
His impressive form continued into Uttarakhand’s second innings, where he added another four wickets, including those of captain Kunal Chandela (who scored 72), Abhay Negi, Janmejay Joshi, and Rajan Kumar.
This commanding display on the field directly challenges Agarkar’s earlier assertion about Shami’s fitness. Before this match, Shami had consistently voiced his disagreement with the BCCI selectors’ reasoning, pointing to his active participation in four-day matches as proof of his match readiness.