Kolkata: Former India batter Manoj Tiwary has launched a strong criticism of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the national selectors for leaving out senior pacer Mohammed Shami despite his standout performances in the ongoing Ranji Trophy.
Shami, who has been in excellent rhythm for Bengal this domestic season, has not been picked for recent tours, including the Test series against South Africa and the limited-overs assignments in Australia. Tiwary expressed concern over the “lack of transparency” in the selection process and questioned the communication gap between the selectors and the veteran fast bowler.
Speaking to India Today, Tiwary said the situation reflects “a lack of trust and understanding” within the Indian team ecosystem.
“Mohammed Shami has consistently taken wickets for Bengal, yet he wasn’t selected for the South Africa Tests or even the ODIs in Australia,” he noted.
The controversy intensified after chief selector Ajit Agarkar revealed that there was “no clear update” regarding Shami’s fitness during the announcement of the Test squad for the West Indies series. Tiwary criticised the explanation, arguing that it is the responsibility of the support staff and management to monitor and communicate a player’s fitness status.
“The selectors said they had no fitness update. But whose job is it to provide one?” Tiwary questioned. “Trainers, physios, and the coaching staff must stay informed. At least call the player and ask him. He’s a senior cricketer who has contributed for years. This is the bare minimum the selection committee and the coach should do.”
Tiwary, who has been vocal on selection issues recently, had earlier accused the team management of pushing Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli into premature Test retirements. According to him, a forced “transition narrative” was created despite both players wanting to continue in the longest format. Rohit and Kohli announced their Test retirements in May 2025, shortly before India’s tour of England.
Reacting to India’s loss to South Africa in the opening Test, Tiwary said that the idea of “transition” holds little meaning in Indian cricket given the depth of players waiting in the domestic circuit. He reiterated that communication lapses and unclear strategies are hurting the team during a crucial phase.
