Mohammed Shami Omitted from India Squad — What’s Next for the Veteran Pacer?

1. What happened?
For the two-Test home series against South Africa national cricket team starting November 14, 2025, Mohammed Shami’s name does not appear in India’s squad. 
Domestic statistics suggest he is still performing strongly: in the ongoing 2025-26 domestic season for Bengal cricket team he has taken 15 wickets in just 3-4 matches. 

2. Reaction from key figures
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has publicly questioned the selectors’ decision, saying Shami is still “fit and bowling exceptionally well.” 
Former assistant coach Abhishek Nayar called the omission a “clear indicator” of the team management moving on to newer options.
India captain Shubman Gill explained that while he respects Shami’s past contributions, the selection committee had to make tough calls based on current form and conditions.

3. Why was he dropped?

• Age & long term planning: At 35, Shami is considered a senior veteran.

• Competition: Younger bowlers such as Prasidh Krishna and Akash Deep have been given preference. 

• Strategy shift: The team may be planning for future conditions/environment by building a different pace attack.

• Communication issues: Some reports claim Shami felt insufficiently communicated with by selectors.

4. What about his performance?
Though he hasn’t been selected for India recently, Shami’s domestic form has been strong: 15 wickets, outstanding economy and strike rate in recent matches. 
His last major international appearance came during the 2025 Champions Trophy.

5. What does this mean for his future?
This omission raises serious questions:

• Is Shami nearing the end of his India career?

• Will he continue playing domestic cricket and try to force a comeback?

• Could the selectors be signalling a new pace era for India?
  The next few months may determine whether this is a temporary omission or a permanent shift.