The absence of Mohammad Shammi is once again being discussed following the announcement of the Indian squad for the series of matches against New Zealand. Rishabh Pant has been included in the Test squad, recovering from an injury, while Prasad Krishna's selection depends on receiving medical clearance.
India is scheduled to play five T20 matches and five ODI matches, as well as a two-match Test series against New Zealand. The first match of the Test series is planned for November 19 in Wellington. Jasprit Bumrah has returned to this Test series, and Akash Deep and Anshul Kamboj have also been included in the fast bowling group.
Mohammad Siraj and Nitish Kumar Reddy are also part of the team, but Shammi's absence has become the main reason for discussions regarding player selection. Shammi attracted attention due to his form in domestic cricket; for example, in the Ranji Trophy 2026-27 match for Bengal against Delhi, he took 5 wickets.
Rishabh Pant suffered a side muscle strain during a game for 'Rest of India' in the Iranian Cup while attempting a sweep shot. Following this, he missed the first two unofficial Test matches against New Zealand-A. Despite this, selectors kept him in the Test squad, although his participation will depend on a medical report. There is a possibility that he might play in the third unofficial Test match in Lincoln from November 7 to 10. Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Anshul Kamboj are also expected to participate in this meeting, which could give the players a chance to find their rhythm before the main series.
Prasad Krishna was also selected for the Test squad, but his playing time is contingent on fitness conditions. Prasad was diagnosed with a hamstring strain, but scans did not confirm a muscle tear. He spent the last two weeks recovering, strengthening, and improving mobility. Prasad has also been selected for the ODI squad against New Zealand, but only for the first three matches.
The exclusion of Mohammad Shammi from the Test squad raises the most questions. This experienced fast bowler has proven his worth in several crucial moments of Indian cricket, but his name is absent among the fast bowlers selected for the tour to New Zealand. However, available information does not provide a clear explanation for Shammi's exclusion. Therefore, it is incorrect to link his absence to any specific injury, fitness issue, or poor performance. Currently, it is clear that the team management has opted for options like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasad Krishna, and Anshul Kamboj in fast bowling. Nitish Kumar Reddy will also provide an additional option in bowling.
Akash Deep returned to the team after good performances in the Iranian Cup, and Anshul Kamboj has also been included in the Test squad. Answers to the questions arising from Shammi's absence will only be known after an official clarification from the selectors. Jasprit Bumrah may take to the Test field for the first time since November 2025. The team management aims to control his workload so that he remains fit for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be held at home venues next year. In the spin department, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar were selected alongside Kuldeep Yadav. Additionally, Sai Sudarshan has returned to the Test squad.