IND vs SL: Mohammed Shami to Karun Nair 4 Ranji Trophy Stars Who Missed Out on India’s Test Squad Despite Outstanding Seasons

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, with Shubman Gill continuing as captain, Ravindra Jadeja returning from injury, and all-rounder Saransh Jain receiving his maiden Test call-up.

However, the squad announcement has also sparked debate among cricket fans and experts after several top performers from the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy season failed to find a place in the national team despite exceptional domestic campaigns.

Here are four players whose omissions have become major talking points.

1. Mohammed Shami (Bengal)

Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami appeared to have done everything possible to force his way back into India’s Test setup after recovering from injury.

Ranji Trophy 2025–26 Performance

• Matches: 7
• Wickets: 37
• Best Bowling: 8/90
• Bowling Average: 16.72
• Five-Wicket Hauls: 3

Shami showcased his trademark control, reverse swing, and match-winning ability throughout the season. His experience in overseas conditions and consistent domestic performances made him one of the strongest contenders for a recall.

Despite that, the selectors opted for a younger pace attack.

2. Auqib Nabi (Jammu & Kashmir)

Few bowlers dominated the Ranji Trophy as convincingly as Auqib Nabi.

Ranji Trophy 2025–26 Performance

• Matches: 10
• Wickets: 60
• Best Bowling: 7/24
• Bowling Average: 12.56
• Five-Wicket Hauls: 7

Finishing as one of the leading wicket-takers of the tournament, Nabi consistently troubled batters with pace, movement, and accuracy.

Although the selectors may have preferred experience for an overseas assignment, his remarkable numbers have strengthened his case for future India selection.

3. Smaran Ravichandran (Karnataka)

One of the biggest batting discoveries of the domestic season, Smaran Ravichandran impressed with remarkable consistency.

Ranji Trophy 2025–26 Performance

• Matches: 9
• Runs: 950
• Highest Score: 227*
• Batting Average: 86.36
• Centuries/Fifties: 4/3

Scoring nearly 1,000 runs at an average above 86 is an achievement that naturally attracts attention.

The Karnataka batter displayed excellent temperament, patience, and the ability to convert starts into substantial innings—qualities highly valued in Test cricket.

4. Karun Nair (Vidarbha)

Former India batter Karun Nair continued his impressive domestic resurgence with another productive Ranji Trophy campaign.

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Ranji Trophy 2025–26 Performance

• Matches: 9
• Runs: 699
• Highest Score: 233
• Batting Average: 58.25
• Centuries/Fifties: 2/3

Having already proven himself at the highest level with a historic Test triple century, Nair once again demonstrated his ability to play long innings and anchor the middle order.

His consistent performances reignited discussions about a possible India comeback, but the selectors chose to stick with their existing batting group.

Selection based on more than domestic numbers

While domestic performances remain one of the most important pathways to national selection, the selection committee also considers factors such as team balance, overseas conditions, player roles, long-term planning, fitness, and combinations.

Even so, the performances of Mohammed Shami, Auqib Nabi, Smaran Ravichandran, and Karun Nair during the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy have ensured they remain firmly in contention for future opportunities.

With another domestic season approaching, all four players will be eager to continue their strong form and strengthen their claims for a place in India’s Test squad in the months ahead.