By Admin 
The stance of BCCI selectors regarding Indian team’s experienced fast bowler Mohammed Shami seems to be changing once again. Amid long-running speculations regarding fitness and future, the discussion about Shami’s return has intensified. According to sources, 35-year-old Shami’s performance in domestic cricket is being closely tracked and keeping in mind the 2027 ODI World Cup, his name has again been included in the race for selection.
Big U-turn by selectors regarding Shami?
A BCCI source told NDTV that Shami is not completely out of the selection radar. He said that a bowler like Shami does not need much time to take wickets. The concern is only about fitness. If he remains fit, his return in the ODI series against New Zealand will not be surprising. Even the 2027 World Cup is being seen as a possibility, in which Shami’s experience can prove important.
Strong performance in domestic cricket
It is noteworthy that Mohammed Shami has not played any international match for India after the Champions Trophy played in March 2025. He was India’s joint highest wicket-taker in that tournament. Despite this, he remained out of the team due to fitness reasons.
However, Shami’s figures in domestic cricket are forcing the selectors to think. He has taken 17 wickets in the recent six matches, which include Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy matches. In Ranji Trophy too, he has proved that his edge is still intact by taking 20 wickets in just four matches. Many veterans, including former cricketer Mohammad Kaif, have raised questions about Shami being constantly ignored, especially when senior bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj were rested. During that time, Shami’s absence from the team was very painful.
Ajit Agarkar had said this
Selection Committee Chairman Ajit Agarkar has also made it clear earlier that if Shami is fit then why would he not be selected in the team. He had said that his performance in domestic cricket will decide the future picture. However, tensions between Mohammed Shami and the selectors came to the fore when he was ignored for the white-ball tour of Australia. Shami had given a public statement regarding the fitness update. On this, selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar clearly said in the NDTV World Summit 2025 that Shami is a great player, but was not fit at that time. Agarkar also indicated that a comeback in domestic cricket is possible depending on fitness and performance. Now Shami is bowling continuously and giving results. In such a situation, the possibility of his return from the home ODI series against New Zealand has become stronger. The path is not easy for Shami right now. He will have to maintain fitness and stay ahead of the challenge of young bowlers.