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"If he says that to me, I'll...": Ajit Agarkar reacts to Shami's remarks over controversial snub

Akshita Patel

Shami vs Agarkar war begins [Source: @Rajiv1841, @MdShami11/X.com]Shami vs Agarkar war begins [Source: @Rajiv1841, @MdShami11/X.com]

Mohammed Shami sensationalised his recent snub from the India vs Australia ODI series, saying he is fit and injury-free. However, chief selector Ajit Agarkar has now responded to the controversy by revealing the reason behind Shami’s exclusion.

Shami, who played a crucial role in India’s Champions Trophy win earlier this year, recently took a subtle dig at the BCCI selectors, saying his availability for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy should have been enough proof of his fitness.

Ajit Agarkar counters Mohammed Shami with a fresh claim

Speaking at the NDTV World Summit 2025, chief selector Ajit Agarkar said if Mohammed Shami was fit, he would’ve been on the team. 

"If he says that to me, I will probably answer that. I mean if he was here, I would probably do that. I am not quite sure what he said on social media. Maybe if I read that, I might give him a call but my phone is always on for all the players. I have had multiple chats with him over the last few months, but I don't want to try and give you a headline here," Agarkar said.

Agarkar added that he has maintained regular communication with the fast bowler and that the selectors’ doors remain open for him. But instead of speaking directly to him, the pacer has chosen social media as a channel to express his thoughts.

"He has been an incredible performer for India. If he said something, maybe that is a conversation for me to have with him or him to have with me. But even before England, we said if he was fit, he would have been on the plane. Unfortunately, he wasn't and our domestic season has just started," he added.

Mohammed Shami, 35, has been battling recurring ankle and knee injuries since the 2023 World Cup. 

After undergoing surgery earlier this year, he made a gradual return to training. Despite that, selectors decided against rushing him into international cricket. 

Ajit Agarkar clarified that the medical team and selectors were aligned on this decision, prioritising Shami’s long-term fitness over a quick comeback.

The pacer, however, wasn’t entirely pleased. In a recent social media post, he hinted that players shouldn’t have to prove their fitness to selectors if they’re already playing domestic cricket. 

That statement sparked debate, with many questioning the transparency of India’s selection process.

Shami has been absent from international cricket for 6 months

Mohammed Shami last played for India at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Since 2023, he has missed a few important Test series, including the Australia and England tours.

India's pace attack has felt his absence, although the emergence of youth like Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh has provided temporary relief.