Mohammed Shami still in contention for ODI comeback, BCCI insider confirms

Ace pacer Mohammed Shami’s return to India’s ODI setup remains strongly open, despite his prolonged absence from international cricket. A BCCI insider has confirmed that the experienced fast bowler is not out of reckoning, with fitness being the only hurdle standing between him and a potential comeback. With the New Zealand ODI series around the corner and the 2027 World Cup already in focus, Shami’s name continues to feature prominently in selection discussions.

Shami last represented India in the Champions Trophy final in March 2025 and has since spent nearly a year away from the national team due to recurring ankle and knee issues. His absence further drew attention due to a public exchange with chief selector Ajit Agarkar, who had stated that the pacer was not meeting the required fitness benchmarks.

However, reports suggest that tensions have eased and Shami’s consistent domestic performances have forced selectors to reassess their decision. According to a BCCI insider, Shami is being discussed on a regular basis and remains firmly on the selection radar. 

“Mohammed Shami is being discussed on a regular basis, He is not out of reckoning. The only concern is about his fitness. A bowler of his calibre will get wickets. It is wrong to say he is out of the selection radar. He is looking good for the New Zealand One-Day series. Do not be surprised if he is picked, given his experience and ability to take wickets at will. Even the 2027 World Cup is a possibility,” a BCCI insider told NDTV.

In the last two ODI World Cups, he has been India’s best bowler. He claimed 14 wickets in just four matches during the 2019 World Cup at an average of 13.79, and followed it up with a sensational 2023 campaign at home, finishing as the highest wicket-taker with 24 wickets from seven matches at an average of 10.71.

Meanwhile, Shami has taken 20 wickets in four Ranji Trophy matches this season and picked up 17 wickets across the Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in his last six outings. In the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy alone, he has claimed eight wickets in four matches, playing a crucial role in Bengal winning three games.

Selectors had earlier insisted that Shami needed to play some cricket to regain rhythm and fitness. Since then, the 35-year-old has bowled over 200 overs across formats for Bengal, making it increasingly difficult to question his workload. 

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