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While the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 stands still amid cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan, the National Selection Committee is in discussion to select the squad for the upcoming tour of England, which is set to commence from June 20. However, a clarity on the squad is said to come by the end of this month, but recent reports have left everyone startled on the team selection.
With several pointers to be addressed before the Indian team leaves for England for the highly-anticipated series, the BCCI along with the members of the national selection committee will have a tough task to pick a leader, who will be succeeding Rohit Sharma at the helm in the longest format. Moreover, with talks around Virat Kohli’s retirement also going rife, BCCI is also looking to put in the best combination in their bowling attack.
Shami not an automatic pick: BCCI sources
Amidst this, BCCI sources have revealed that star India pacer Mohammed Shami, isn’t looked upon as an automatic pick for the upcoming series. “As of now, Shami isn’t an automatic pick. It’s been months since he has come back to international cricket but he has barely been in rhythm,” a source informed. “While IPL performances are not usually considered while picking India teams, Shami is struggling to finish his run-up and the ball is not carrying to the wicketkeeper like it used to before his Achilles tendon injury after the 2023 ODI World Cup. He invariably goes back to the dressing room after a short spell for recovery,” the source said, as quoted by TOI.
On the other hand, the selectors are looking to play pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah in only two or three Tests of the five-match series and in his absence, they would rely on Shami’s experience. “The initial plan was to ensure the team can at least play either of Shami or Bumrah in every Test. However, if Bumrah is rested for a match and Shami struggles to pull through, it will be a big issue. They are trying to understand the problem Shami may be facing,” the source further revealed.
It is to be noted that along with the likes of Bumrah and Shami, the BCCI will ponder on the likes of Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Khallel Ahmed to get the best bowling attack for the upcoming series.
