Why is the team management constantly ignoring Mohammed Shami despite his impactful performances in domestic cricket for Bengal? During the India vs. South Africa 1st Test (IND vs. SA 1st Test) pre-match press conference, India captain Shubman Gill has made some significant comments about not selecting Shami for the red ball series. 

Acknowledging Shami's talent, Gill highlighted the recent performances from the other pacers of the team. Ultimately, the captain of India's Test and ODI setup said about the long-term investment, which can develop the team in the coming days. The captain mentioned the importance of Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj. 

"There aren’t many bowlers of Shami bhai’s quality. But when you look at the performances of others—guys like Akash Deep and Prasidh—and also what Siraj and Bumrah have done for us, it becomes a tough call," Gill said. 

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"It’s never easy when someone like Shami Bhai has to miss out, but at the same time, we have to plan ahead... As for fitness and selection matters, the selectors would be in a better position to give a clear answer on that." 

Though Gill did not completely rule out the chances of Shami being in the national team completely. He said that the team management will evaluate the squad according to the assignments. 

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"But I think it's important for us to see where we are playing the next series and plan ahead with what kind of fast bowlers can give us the best chance. Especially when we are touring New Zealand or other foreign countries," he added. 

Shami, 35, after a major heel surgery, is pushing hard to regain his spot in the national team. With Bengal, he already did some eye-catching bowling. In just two matches this Ranji Trophy season, he has taken 15 wickets, which includes a five-wicket haul against Gujarat and a destructive 3-for-4 burst that dismantled Uttarakhand. Shami was last featured for Team India during the Champions Trophy 2025 triumph.