Kolkata, Nov. 13 -- India Test captain Shubman Gill acknowledged that it is tough to leave out a bowler of Mohammed Shami's quality, but said the team is looking ahead strategically, keeping in mind the conditions and upcoming series.

Shami, 35, was left out of India's 15-member squad for the two home Tests against South Africa, scheduled to commence on Friday at the famed Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Before his most recent snub, Shami had openly expressed his disappointment about being sidelined from India's recent Test fixtures.

The reason behind Shami's absence was pinned to his lack of fitness. The seasoned quick made a case for his return with a sizzling pefromance for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy against Gujarat. Shami returned with fig...