Shami was not considered for Afghan series for this reason; no more discussions on this topic, says selection committee

MUMBAI: The BCCI on Tuesday announced the Indian squad for the one-off test match and ODI series against Afghanistan scheduled to begin on June 6. Pacer Mohammed Shami was once again left out by the selection committee. Despite performing well in domestic cricket after recovering from injury, the 35-year-old pacer has not been able to make a return to the national team. Shami last played for India in March 2025. Currently playing for Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, he has taken 10 wickets in 12 matches this season.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained the reason behind leaving Shami out. “According to the information we received, Shami is currently fit only for T20 cricket. So we did not even consider him for the Test squad,” Agarkar said.

The selectors also discussed including young Jammu and Kashmir cricketer Aaqib Nabi in the squad as a replacement option.

Meanwhile, KL Rahul has been named the new vice-captain of the Test team, replacing Rishabh Pant. Although Pant remains in the squad, the vice-captaincy has been handed to Rahul. The selectors believe India's batters have recently struggled against spin bowling, especially on spin-friendly pitches. Rahul's inclusion in a leadership role is seen as an effort to solve that issue. The problem became more evident during India’s series against South Africa last November.

India have also struggled to find a stable No. 3 batter since Cheteshwar Pujara moved out of the team. Even though the upcoming Test is not part of the ICC World Test Championship, it is still considered important for India. The team will look to regain form on home pitches and build confidence ahead of future Test assignments.