Mahmood is not available for selection for the A Team as he's played over 5 tests. The only exception to this rule is where a player has played 5 or more tests, but hasn't played test cricket for over 3 years AND their domestic form suggests that they deserve another chance. This has been used for James Foster (England) and Matthew Bell (New Zealand) in the past, but clearly doesn't apply to Mahmood who has played most of his tests in the last twelve months.

According to BBC Sport, Mahmood has only played 6 games this season anyway, and is averaging only 37.15 with the ball in a summer during which the conditions have been more favourable for seamers than spinners.

What exactly has he done this year to deserve selection?