India’s squad selection for the upcoming New Zealand series has raised questions over Mohammed Shami’s continued absence. The experienced fast bowler has impressed in domestic cricket, including a five-wicket haul for Bengal against Delhi in the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy. Yet, he has not been included in the selected squad for the Test series. Meanwhile, injured wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been named in the Test team, subject to fitness clearance. The selectors have not officially explained Shami’s omission.
India’s Pace Attack Gets a New Combination
India will play five T20 Internationals, five One-Day Internationals and two Tests against New Zealand. The first Test is scheduled to begin on November 19 in Wellington. Jasprit Bumrah returns to the Test squad, while Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Anshul Kamboj, Prasidh Krishna and Nitish Kumar Reddy provide additional pace-bowling options. Akash Deep earned his place after a strong performance in the Irani Cup, while Kamboj has also been included in the Test setup.
Rishabh Pant’s Selection Depends on Fitness
Pant suffered a side strain during the Irani Cup while captaining Rest of India. He was injured while attempting a sweep shot in the first innings and subsequently missed the first two unofficial Tests against New Zealand A. Despite the setback, selectors have retained him in the Test squad, with his availability dependent on fitness clearance. Pant could return for the third unofficial Test in Lincoln from November 7 to 10, which would give him an opportunity to regain match practice before the main series.
Prasidh Krishna Also Faces a Fitness Test
Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna has also been selected for the Test series, but his participation depends on his recovery. He suffered a left hamstring strain, although scans reportedly showed no muscle tear. He has spent the past two weeks working on recovery, strength and conditioning, and mobility exercises. Krishna has also been named in India’s ODI squad for the first three matches. His fitness will be important as India prepares to finalise its bowling combination for the tour.
Why Has Shami Been Left Out Again?
Shami’s omission remains the biggest talking point because of his recent domestic performances and experience in international cricket. However, the available information does not provide an official reason for his exclusion. It would therefore be premature to link the decision to a specific injury, fitness issue or performance concern. For now, the team management appears to have preferred other pace options, including Bumrah, Siraj, Akash Deep, Krishna and Kamboj. A formal explanation from the selectors would be needed to clarify the decision.
Bumrah’s Workload and India’s Wider Plans
Bumrah’s return is another major development ahead of the Test series. India will need to manage his workload carefully as it prepares for future international commitments, including the 2027 ODI World Cup. The spin attack includes Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav, while Sai Sudharsan has also returned to the Test squad. With Pant and Krishna awaiting fitness clearance and Shami missing from the selection, India’s final bowling combination and injury management will remain key talking points before the New Zealand series begins.
