Former Indian international Manoj Tiwary has publicly challenged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selection committee, strongly criticizing their lack of transparency and communication regarding the exclusion of senior fast bowler Mohammed Shami from the national squad.

Tiwary’s remarks come following Shami’s absence from recent assignments, including the Test series against the West Indies and ODIs in Australia. The veteran pacer, who was a standout performer during the 2023 ODI World Cup before facing a significant injury layoff, has since returned to competitive cricket, notably delivering consistent performances for Bengal on the domestic circuit. Despite his proven form, he has struggled to find a regular spot in the Indian team.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had previously addressed Shami’s situation, stating that the panel lacked a “clear update” on the bowler’s fitness and emphasized that he needed more match practice, having played limited cricket over the past few years.

However, Tiwary firmly rejected this reasoning, arguing that passing the blame for a lack of fitness information is unacceptable. He stressed that maintaining an updated status on a player’s physical condition is the direct responsibility of the team’s trainers and physiotherapists, who are tasked with informing the selection committee.

More critically, Tiwary highlighted the perceived disrespect shown to a player of Shami’s stature. “He is a senior player who has contributed for years—you can at least call him,” Tiwary asserted. He believes that veteran cricketers who have served the nation deserve a simple, direct phone call from either the coach or the selection committee to explain their non-selection, rather than being left to guess their fate or rely on public statements.

Tiwary’s comments have reignited the long-standing debate within Indian cricket circles about the communication gap between the national selectors and the players—an issue he views as unresolved and potentially damaging to team morale. While Shami continues his domestic duties, his international future remains a subject of public discussion.