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"He's Not Looking Good" Ex-Opener Doubtful Of Shami's Place In India Squad For ENG Tests

Soumyajit Dutta

Mohammed Shami [Source: @cric_lover32/X]Mohammed Shami [Source: @cric_lover32/X]

Mohammed Shami’s lacklustre form in IPL 2025 has become a growing concern for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Indian cricket fans. The veteran pacer, returning from ankle surgery in 2024, has managed just six wickets in nine matches, leaking runs at an economy of 11.23. 

Shami's latest performance against Gujarat Titans (GT) saw him concede 48 runs in three overs without a wicket, amplifying doubts about his fitness and rhythm. Once a Purple Cap winner, Shami’s dip in pace and accuracy has left experts questioning his future in high-stakes cricket.

Experts Question Shami’s Place In England Tour

Amongst the experts, commentator Aakash Chopra minced no words while analysing Shami's dip in form.

"He's not looking good. All of us were harping about... if there was Shami how things would have been different. But will there be Shami (in England) is the question. And what kind of Shami?" Chopra said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. 

Chopra further criticised Shami’s inconsistency and called him out to bank on his strength and initiate a comeback with the ball. "Pace down is one bit, second is not enough balls getting bowled in the same area. Mohammed Shami was always that. That is his only strength (and), it is phenomenal," Chopra said.

Former cricketer Danny Morrison highlighted the mental toll of recovery which might have impacted the India quick.

"You've had a big surgery like that, I think psychologically for a start (it gets you down)... He is no 29-year-old anymore, is he? So there are all of those things that are stacked against you," Morrison stated.

Shami's Mixed Returns Post-Injury

Mohammed Shami’s comeback included domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, followed by a promising Champions Trophy 2025 where he took 5/53 against Bangladesh. 

However, erratic spells, like a five-wide over against Pakistan and Friday’s 20-run over to GT, have overshadowed bright spots. As SRH battles for relevance, Shami’s form remains pivotal, not just for their campaign but for India’s Test ambitions in England.