"We Also Have A Personal Life": Mohammed Shami Hits Out At Media Amid Controversy

Veteran India pacer Mohammed Shami recently took a swipe at sections of the media, accusing journalists of repeatedly "putting him in trouble" with controversial reports. Shami, who has claimed 462 international wickets across all formats, is currently out of the national team's plans. The right-arm fast bowler played a key role in India's run to the 2023 ODI World Cup final and was also part of the side that won the Champions Trophy in 2025. However, he has not featured for India since March 2025. 

Meanwhile, Shami's long-time teammate Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who last represented India in 2022, recently earned a recall to the squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand.

Currently in Delhi with the Bengal team for the ongoing Ranji Trophy season, Shami spoke about Bhuvneshwar's return to the national side. During the interaction, he also criticised sections of the media for allegedly creating unnecessary controversies by linking stories to his name.

"I have said this multiple times: the way he (Bhuvneshwar) has performed, he should have made a comeback a long time ago. And I also know that you guys (the media) always drag me into controversies, and you enjoy it. I acknowledge the fact that you people have supported me a lot, but one thing everyone should understand is that unnecessary issues should not be created," Shami told the media during the Ranji Trophy match between Bengal and Services in Delhi.

"Say what is right. Rest, we are players. We also have a personal life and we are also bound to make mistakes. Though I don't misbehave with anyone but there are instances when I also lose my cool," he added.

As for the Ranji Trophy, Shami was left out of Bengal's playing XI for their Elite Group C match against Services. Bengal went on to register a 60-run victory, with spinner Shahbaz Ahmed being named Player of the Match.

Speaking about the snub, Shami said, "Today, you guys are questioning me and giving all this attention is all because of this team (Bengal). I even want to retire while playing for Bengal. It doesn't matter at what level you are playing; you just need to be loyal and hardworking. That's the only thing that is in a player's hands."

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