Mohammed Shami’s Struggles in IPL 2025 Spark Doubts Ahead of England Tour

Mohammed Shami‘s disappointing run in IPL 2025 has drawn sharp criticism from former cricketers. This has raised serious concerns over his readiness for India’s upcoming Test tour of England.

Representing SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) this season, the veteran fast bowler has failed to deliver the impact expected of him. In nine matches, Shami has managed just six wickets, leaking runs at an alarming economy rate of 11.23. His inability to contain runs in both the powerplay and death overs has contributed significantly to SRH’s slide down the points table.

He had one particularly forgettable outing against Punjab Kings. Shami conceded 75 runs in four overs, prompting heavy backlash from cricketing experts.

Ex-Players Question Shami’s Fitness and Form

Former India opener Aakash Chopra and ex-New Zealand pacer Danny Morrison led the criticism. He questioned both Shami’s fitness and mental readiness after his return from injury.

“You’ve had a big surgery like that; psychologically, it drags you down. And then you’ve got to come back and pace yourself,” said Morrison on ESPNcricinfo’s Time Out show.
“He’s no 29-year-old anymore. Age, injury, and rhythm — all are stacked against him,” he added.

Chopra echoed similar concerns, pointing out that Shami resumed playing domestic cricket months ago and even featured in ICC tournaments, yet has not returned to peak performance.

“If he’s still off the boil in May, after playing the Champions Trophy and several domestic games, we must ask whether this form is linked to the injury — and what that means for India’s plans in England,” Chopra said.

Shami’s Rapid Decline Since Purple Cap Glory

Shami, who missed IPL 2024 due to ankle surgery, had claimed the Purple Cap in IPL 2023 with 28 wickets for Gujarat Titans. However, his form has drastically declined in 2025. In SRH’s latest fixture against Gujarat Titans, Shami gave away 48 runs in just three overs and failed to take a wicket.

Despite his decorated past — including a five-wicket haul against Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy earlier this year — Shami’s recent struggles have sparked national debate about whether he should be included in the Test squad for England.

“What Kind of Shami Will Turn Up in England?”

India is set to tour England later this year, and selectors now face a dilemma. With Jasprit Bumrah expected to lead the pace attack, India’s coaching staff had hoped for a fit and firing Shami to partner him. But the current numbers suggest otherwise.

Chopra posed the question weighing on every Indian cricket fan’s mind:
“Will there be a Shami in England — and if so, what kind of Shami will it be?”

Shami returned through the Ranji Trophy before playing the Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He is yet to show signs of regaining his old rhythm. The clock ticking and team selection is looming. India’s selectors must decide whether to back the veteran or look for alternatives.

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