• Source:JND
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IPL 2026: Mohammed Shami last represented India during the India vs New Zealand Champions Trophy summit clash last year. It has been more than a year since that match, but even though the star pacer has been fit, he hasn't returned to the national team, and only the BCCI and its chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, know the reason. Shami has consistently represented Bengal in domestic tournaments, performing brilliantly in the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, taking 67 wickets across all three tournaments. Despite all these efforts, he still doesn't get picked for the Indian teams. One of the biggest reasons for his snub could be that the Indian team might have moved on from him, and that it might be the end of his illustrious career. Speculations were rife that he might get selected for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad, but the star fast bowler had pulled out since he hadn't recovered fully from the foot injury. A similar situation occurred before India's Test series against England, where he again prioritized himself over the team.

Amidst all this, his relationship with Agarkar also soured, as Shami alleged that Agarkar didn't speak to him properly, prompting Agarkar to respond to these allegations, finally. This miscommunication didn't have much effect, as the star pacer is still not part of the Indian team, even though there are many upcoming fast bowlers in Indian cricket. Shami, who will now play for LSG in IPL 2026, recently revealed he has been considering his retirement plans. Since there is no clarity about his return to the Indian national team, the star pacer has taken a clear stand.

“When I get tired, I will call it a day. I am not thinking about retirement now because such thoughts pull you down. If you think about it, it means you’re already tired or bored. I have said this before: I'll leave cricket on the day I wake up bored or lazy. For now, I am enjoying myself and the results are good,” Shami was quoted as saying on the Shubhankar Mishra show.

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 He is currently focusing on the IPL as he will play for the Lucknow Super Giants post being traded from SRH. Shami, who had won the purple cap during IPL 2023, was roped in by the Hyderabad-based franchise for a whopping amount of Rs 10 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction, but had a forgetful outing as he could take just six wickets after playing in nine matches. He aims to bounce back this season.

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“As a bowler, I will give my 100 percent and fulfill my responsibilities. I can’t change my luck; only my attitude and determination matter. If Lucknow has trusted me, I will give my all. Whenever I play, satisfaction is key. Will my preparations pay off? I focus more on my rhythm than on the amount of domestic cricket I’ve played. If that’s right, I start thinking about the future,” he concluded.


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