Mohammed Shami’s exclusion from India’s Test lineup for the South Africa series has come as a surprise, given his brilliant form in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, where he picked up 15 wickets in three matches for Bengal.

Mohammed Shami, a pillar of India’s fast-bowling unit for more than a decade, last played for the national team during their 2025 Champions Trophy win. His continued exclusion from Team India has led to questions about whether the team has moved on from the speedster.

Cheteshwar Pujara, who bid farewell to professional cricket earlier this year, has emphasized the need for the selectors and team management to hold a candid conversation with Shami concerning his future in international cricket

“I’m not the right person to say whether it’s the end of the road for him, but someone like Mohammed Shami definitely deserves an honest conversation with the selectors and team management. They need to make it clear what the plan is moving forward, whether they still see him in the squad or if they’re focusing on younger players,” he said.

“If he’s been told that he’s not in their plans, it’s ultimately up to Shami to decide whether he wants to continue playing first-class cricket or if he still wants to be part of the game. After all, he’s also involved in the IPL, so he may choose to keep playing cricket if he desires,” he added.

“Ultimately, it’s Shami’s personal decision whether he wants to retire from international cricket or keep pursuing his career by playing domestic cricket,” Pujara mentioned.

Shami made an impact in Bengal’s two games at Eden Gardens, including a crucial five-wicket haul against Gujarat

“If an opportunity arises, particularly due to injuries, he should be ready and available for selection. However, the team management and selectors must communicate clearly with Mohammed Shami about his chances. He deserves a transparent path forward.

“He needs to have a clear understanding of what the selectors and team management expect from him and what their plans are. If he’s not in the selection frame, then as a player, he will have to make his own decision about what to do next. Ultimately, it’s his personal choice.

“The communication from the team management needs to be crystal clear and completely honest. Shami should definitely be included in that conversation,” Pujara concluded.