There were many instances of the Indian selection committee head, Ajit Agarkar, being asked if there would be any chance for their one-time premier pacer across formats, Mohammed Shami, to make a strong return to the national side. But he has always been strict in highlighting the bowler’s fitness.

During one of the Ranji Trophy 2024/25 clashes, Shami’s video and photo with RP Singh, part of the selection panel, went viral. The right-arm pacer hasn’t played any red-ball contest for the Indian side since the final of the WTC 2021/23 against Australia at the Kennington Oval in South London.

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“See, with RP (Singh) bhai, it’s a different thing that he is a selector, but we also have some personal connections. He is like my personal brother. Selection wasn’t discussed at all in that period. For that, they have the selection committee. And there is no need to tell them. If you are playing the domestic season, people are watching you all the time; there are many teams. It’s not like you will get connected only professionally.” Shami said in an interaction.

Mohammad Shami reveals secret chat with RP Singh

Shami went through surgery post the ODI World Cup 2023, after which his comeback became incredibly tough. He was part of the Champions Trophy 2025, after which he was omitted from the team. Shami shared the story of his tough phase.

Watch the video here: 

pic.twitter.com/OOXiARiXOQ

— media (@Monusoni0) February 28, 2026

“I was playing the Ranji Trophy (smiles). I was carrying a serious injury, and the pain in the heel has been present since the ODI World Cup. The entire 2023 ODI WC went with the injury. When I used to wake up in the morning, and if I needed to go 10 steps to the toilet, then I had to think for 15-20 minutes until my body got warm.”

“See, as I have said before, the selection thing is not in my hands. I can only perform and keep running on the ground. I don’t blame anyone, and as a sportsperson, you can only try, repeat, and be patient with your skills. That’s life. It’s all about hard work in the morning and returning home in the evening.”