Mohammed Shami not an automatic selection for ENG vs IND 2025 Tests: Reports

It has been reported that Mohammed Shami is not an automatic selection for the upcoming tour of England, where India would play five Test matches. Shami recently returned to action after recovering from injury. The fast bowler was also part of India’s Champions Trophy winning campaign.

But Shami hasn’t been at his best for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2025, which has been suspended for a week amid rising tension between India and Pakistan. The fast bowler from Bengal has scalped six wickets in nine matches for the Orange Army at an average of 56.16 and a high economy rate of 11.23.

Shami also missed the major part of ICC Test Championship 2023-25 cycle after he suffered an ankle injury in the 2023 World Cup.

On the other hand, fast bowlers like Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna have impressed in the Twenty20 tournament. Krishna is currently the purple cap holder in IPL 2025 with 20 wickets in 11 matches whereas Singh has snared 16 wickets in 12 matches. 

A source told TOI that Shami hasn’t been able to bowl at his absolute since returning to action after injury.

“As of now, Shami isn’t an automatic pick. It’s been months since he has come back to international cricket but he has barely been in rhythm. While IPL performances are usually not considered while picking India teams, Shami is struggling to finish his run-up and the ball is not carrying to the keeper like it used to before his Achilles tendon injury. He invariably goes back to the dressing room after a short spell for recovery,” a source told the Times of India.

Mohammed Shami has taken 42 wickets in 14 Tests for India in English conditions at an average of 40.50. Shami has got the experience under his belt but it would be interesting to note Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel decision on his selection.