Mohammed Shami hasn’t done himself any favours by criticising the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). For the last few weeks, the veteran pacer has been going back and forth with Chairman of Selectors Ajit Agarkar about his fitness. Although the public tiff has ended now, the damage might have already been done.
Shami vs Agarkar tiff
It all began with Shami claiming that BCCI hasn’t been in touch with him. “About giving an update, it’s not my responsibility to give an update or ask for an update. It’s not my job to give updates on 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 (That’s their matter who gives them updates or not). It’s not my responsibility,” he had said.
When asked, Agarkar stated that he’s been in touch with Shami multiple times since he last played for India, and the medical team at the Centre of Excellence doesn’t think that Shami was ready for the rigours of international cricket. The comment didn’t sit well with the pacer, who said in reply, “Let him say whatever he wants.”
BCCI then sent the newly appointed selector from Central Zone, RP Singh, to Kolkata to diffuse the situation, and Shami hasn’t said anything since. But the matter has probably already gotten out of hand.
“There have been multiple times that national selectors and support staff from the BCCI Centre of Excellence have called to check on Shami. The selection committee was desperate to get his services in England, as Jasprit Bumrah could not have played more than three Tests. Who wouldn’t want a bowler of his calibre in English conditions,” a senior board official told PTI.
BCCI unsure about Shami’s fitness
Also, BCCI aren’t sure about Shami’s fitness. He might have played 3 matches for Bengal on the trot in the Ranji Trophy, but his speeds have been hovering around 130 kmph, and the veteran pacer hasn’t been bowling long spells either. One also has to consider that Shami could have knee issues again due to advancing age and prior surgeries.
“So the narrative that there was no communication with Shami isn’t an absolute truth. The sports science team also has his medical reports and whether his body will be able to take the rigours of international cricket,” the official further added.
