Mohammed Shami has sent a direct message to the BCCI selectors after playing a big part in East Zone's Duleep Trophy win. The experienced pacer questioned why his fitness is still treated as a problem when his performances on the field keep delivering results.
East Zone won the 2026/27 Duleep Trophy after a drawn final against South Zone. The title was decided by East Zone's commanding first-innings lead. It ended a 13-year wait for the team. Ishan Kishan led the side and scored a sensational 270 in the final.
Mohammed Shami Questions Fitness Doubts After Duleep Trophy Win
Shami was one of the biggest contributors to East Zone's campaign. After the match, he spoke about the uncertainty around his place in the Indian team. Speaking to RevSportz, the senior pacer raised a simple question — why is his fitness still being questioned when he keeps performing?
His remark, "Did I look unfit?", was aimed straight at the BCCI selectors. It reflects his frustration at being repeatedly judged on fitness rather than on what he does on the pitch.
Why This Moment Matters for Shami and Indian Cricket
Shami's performance in the Duleep Trophy was not a small one. He helped East Zone throughout the campaign, and the team's title win was built on strong individual efforts. Ishan Kishan's 270 in the final was the standout batting display, while Shami's bowling played a key role in giving East Zone the edge.
The 13-year wait for East Zone shows how tough this competition is. Winning it required consistent performances across matches, and Shami was part of that effort. Yet, the fitness question keeps following him.
- East Zone won the Duleep Trophy after a 13-year gap
- The final against South Zone ended in a draw, decided by first-innings lead
- Ishan Kishan captained the side and scored 270 in the final
- Shami was a major contributor and later questioned the fitness doubts around him
Our Take: Shami's Question Deserves a Straight Answer
In our view, Shami's question is fair. When a player performs in a tournament like the Duleep Trophy and still faces fitness doubts, it is natural to ask why. The selectors may have their reasons, but those reasons should be clear. A senior bowler who is still taking wickets and helping his team win deserves transparency, not silence.
To put it plainly, Shami is not asking for a favour. He is asking for an explanation. His performance in the Duleep Trophy shows he can still compete at a high level. If fitness is the only barrier, then the BCCI should say so openly. Otherwise, the doubt looks less like a medical concern and more like a selection choice.
For readers, this story is about more than one player. It is about how senior athletes are treated when they get older. Shami's case will be watched closely because it sets an example for others. If performance is not enough, then what is?
The Duleep Trophy win gave East Zone a long-awaited title. For Shami, it gave him a platform to speak. His message is now out there, and the selectors have heard it.
