**Has Mohammed Shami Played His Last Game for Team India?**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Oct 05, 2025, 10:14 AM*
Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has shared his thoughts on the future of fast bowler Mohammed Shami following the latter’s exclusion from India’s white-ball squads for the upcoming series against Australia.
### The Injury Struggle and Its Impact
Mohammed Shami, 35, has been battling injuries since the 2023 ODI World Cup. Despite overcoming a year-long fitness struggle, he has been unable to regain his peak form. Gavaskar noted that for a fast bowler like Shami, recovering from such injuries is especially challenging.
“In Mohammed Shami’s case, it’ll be a real uphill climb for him. It’s going to be very, very tough,” Gavaskar told *India Today*. He also acknowledged Shami’s valuable contribution to Indian cricket over the years.
Shami last represented India in the Champions Trophy earlier this year but has since found it hard to secure a spot in the national team.
### Declining Form and Limited Opportunities
The 2025 IPL season was disappointing for Shami as he struggled to make an impact with Sunrisers Hyderabad. Consequently, he was left out of key tours and tournaments, including the England tour, the T20 Asia Cup 2025, and the West Indies Test series.
His domestic performances have also been underwhelming, notably in the Duleep Trophy where he picked up only one wicket in 34 overs while representing East Zone.
### Selectors’ Long-Term Vision
In recent squad announcements, India’s selection committee has made significant changes ahead of the Australia tour. Shami, along with Ravindra Jadeja, has been omitted to make room for younger talents like Prasidh Krishna and Washington Sundar.
This move signals a clear long-term strategy focusing on building a core team for the 2027 World Cup. Shami’s exclusion appears to be part of this broader vision to develop fresh talent and invest in the future.
### A Look Back at Shami’s Career
Mohammed Shami made his international debut in 2013 and quickly established himself as a vital member of the Indian bowling attack across all formats.
– **ODIs:** 64 matches, 116 wickets at an average of 25.71
– **Tests:** 64 matches, 229 wickets at an average of 27.71, including six five-wicket hauls
– **T20Is:** 27 wickets at an average of 28
Shami’s experience and skill have been invaluable to Team India, but with continuing fitness concerns and emerging young talent, his international future remains uncertain.
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As India gears up for future challenges, the story of Mohammed Shami’s international career may be approaching its final chapter. Fans and experts alike await further developments as the team evolves towards the 2027 World Cup.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/has-mohammed-shami-s-india-career-ended/story