Mohammed Shami has been waiting for selection in India senior men’s team, having last played international cricket in 2025. Despite his impressive bowling across formats in domestic cricket, the selectors are not considering him. His absence has been questioned by many former players, considering his track record and match-winning abilities.

India fast bowler Navdeep Saini has spoken in favour of Shami, questioning his exclusion despite consistent performances.

Saini said Shami, who has been one of the best Indian bowlers in the history of the sport, deserves another chance at the highest level.

“Shami bhaiya has been serving Indian cricket for a long time and has won several matches,” Saini told Revsportz. “He should be picked for India, and I don’t know why he is not there in the team. He has been giving consistent performances, be it domestic tournaments or the recent Duleep Trophy. He continues to work hard and still has the same potential. Everything is fine, and I feel he should get an opportunity,” he added.

Saini’s comments come amid growing calls for the fast bowler’s inclusion, with the speedster’s bowling display continuing to keep him in the race.

Navdeep Saini also expressed happiness over Bhuvneshwar Kumar getting selected for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand. Bhuvi has done well in domestic cricket and for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League.

Bhuvneshwar was recently recalled to the side after four years, with his last match coming against New Zealand in 2022.

“Bhuvneshwar’s selection is motivating for us.

He is a capable bowler and has served India for a long time and won matches. He is a game-changing bowler. Although he hasn’t played for India in the last four years, he has been impressive in domestic cricket,” he mentioned.

“He has been good in the last two IPL seasons. He should be given a chance. Now, he has been included in the side; I really feel good,” he concluded.