Mohammad Shami Excluded from India's ODI Squad Against New Zealand: Fans React

The exclusion of Mohammad Shami from India's ODI squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand has stirred significant reactions among fans and cricket enthusiasts. Despite his impressive domestic performances, including being Bengal's leading wicket-taker in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shami's absence has raised eyebrows. Fans have taken to social media to express their disbelief and frustration, questioning the selectors' decisions. Meanwhile, Mohammed Siraj returns to the squad, and Shreyas Iyer is back as vice-captain, pending fitness clearance. The ODI series begins on January 11, marking India's first 50-over assignment of the year, but the focus remains on Shami's controversial omission.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 3, 2026, 18:58 IST

Shami's Omission Sparks Controversy

The decision to exclude Mohammad Shami from India's squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand has ignited a wave of reactions on social media, with numerous fans questioning the selectors' choice. The experienced pacer, who last played for India during the 2025 Champions Trophy, was omitted despite his impressive recent performances for Bengal.

Shami's Performance in Domestic Cricket

Shami was instrumental in India's Champions Trophy victory, where he emerged as the joint-highest wicket-taker for the team, claiming nine wickets in five matches. His absence from the New Zealand series has left many supporters astonished, particularly given his consistent involvement in domestic cricket lately.

Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz

The 35-year-old has faced multiple exclusions from the national team, and this latest decision has only fueled the ongoing debate. Fans expressed their frustration online, with one user commenting, "Imagine having a Ferrari in the garage and choosing to walk," reflecting their disbelief at Shami's continued exclusion.

Shami's Domestic Achievements

Currently, Shami is the leading wicket-taker for Bengal in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, having taken 11 wickets in five matches, including a remarkable performance of 3 wickets for 55 runs against Assam just before the squad announcement. His strong domestic form has bolstered the argument from fans advocating for his inclusion in the ODI lineup.

Changes in the ODI Squad

While Shami was left out, Mohammed Siraj made his return to India's ODI squad. Siraj, who missed the home series against South Africa, has been included as the team management decided to rest Jasprit Bumrah for the New Zealand matches. The selectors are rotating their pace attack, but Shami's omission remains a hot topic of discussion.

Injury Updates and Squad Composition

Shreyas Iyer has also been reinstated in the squad after recovering from an injury and has been appointed vice-captain, pending clearance from the Centre of Excellence (COE). The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that all-rounder Hardik Pandya was not selected as he has not yet been cleared to bowl a full quota of overs. With the 2026 T20 World Cup on the horizon, his workload is being closely monitored.

Upcoming ODI Series Details

The ODI series is set to commence on January 11 at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara, marking India's first 50-over series of the year. The squad comprises a blend of seasoned players and emerging talents, but Shami's exclusion has overshadowed the lead-up to the series.

India's ODI Squad

The selected squad includes: Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Shreyas Iyer (VC), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Social Media Reactions

Fans have taken to social media to voice their opinions on the selection decisions, with various comments highlighting the perceived injustices in the squad selection process. Notably, Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla criticized the selection committee for overlooking Shami, emphasizing his dedication to domestic cricket.