Ravi Shastri Disappointed Over Mohammed Shami's Test Retirement

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has expressed disappointment over Mohammed Shami's decision to retire from Test cricket, stating that the veteran pacer deserved at least one more opportunity to represent India in the longest format. Speaking ahead of the second ODI against New Zealand, Shastri said Shami still had the ability to take wickets in Test cricket and could have claimed another 40 wickets if given a chance. He also pointed out that Shami had been performing consistently in domestic cricket for Bengal, bowling regularly in matches. Shastri questioned why the selectors continued to overlook him in the name of fitness when the pacer had been playing and bowling regularly.

Shastri also recalled an interesting incident involving Shami during a Test match against South Africa. At a time when India were struggling, the team management believed Shami's bowling could make a difference on the pitch. During the lunch break, Shami was about to eat biryani when the team sent Bharat Thakur to provoke him and stop him from eating. An annoyed Shami reportedly walked away without having the meal. He then returned to the field and picked up wickets in quick succession, helping India turn the match around. Shastri recalled the incident to highlight Shami's competitive spirit and determination.