BCCI not happy with Mohammed Shami for writing ‘stories’, uncertain about fitness

Mohammed Shami has not done himself any favors by criticizing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Over the past few weeks, the veteran pacer has gone back and forth with chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar over his fitness. Even though the public feud is now over, the damage may already be done.

Tiff between Shami and Agarkar

It all started when Shami claimed that the BCCI had not been in touch with him. “As for the update, it is not my responsibility to give an update or ask for an update. It is not my job to give updates about my fitness. My job is to go to the NCA (National Cricket Academy), prepare and play matches. Woh unki baat hai unko kaun update deta hai, kisne nahin diya (It is their business who gives them updates or not). This is not my responsibility”, he had said.

When asked, Agarkar said he had been in contact with Shami several times since his last match for India, and the medical team at the Center of Excellence did not believe Shami was ready for the rigors of international cricket. The comment did not please the leader, who replied: “Let him say what he wants.”

The BCCI then sent newly-appointed Central Zone selector RP Singh to Calcutta to defuse the situation, and Shami has said nothing since. But the matter has probably already gotten out of hand.

“There were several times when national selectors and support staff from the BCCI Center of Excellence called to check on Shami. The selection committee was desperate to secure his services in England as Jasprit Bumrah could not have played more than three Tests. Who wouldn’t want a bowler of his caliber in English conditions,” a senior board official said PTI.

BCCI not sure about Shami’s fitness

Moreover, the BCCI is not sure about Shami’s fitness. He may have played 3 matches for Bengal on the trot in the Ranji Trophy, but his speeds are around 130 kmph, and the veteran pacer has not played long spells either. It should also be considered that Shami could have knee problems again due to advanced age and previous surgeries.

“So the narrative that there was no communication with Shami is not an absolute truth. The sports science team also has his medical reports and knows if his body will be able to withstand the rigors of international cricket,” » added the manager.