Discussions about Mohammed Shami‘s possible comeback to the Indian cricket team have begun, with former India batter Suresh Raina supporting the seasoned pacer’s prospects. Raina thinks Mohammed Shami might make a comeback to the national team after Bhuvneshwar Kumar was called up to the Indian T20I team for the New Zealand tour.
Despite not playing for India since the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, Mohammed Shami has persisted in making appearances in domestic cricket. Although the selectors have not yet made a formal announcement about his future, his performances in domestic competitions have kept him in the running for an international comeback.
Speaking at the Indian Soft Ball Cricket League jersey launch, Raina discussed Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s comeback to the Indian squad and whether Shami might do the same.
Raina commended Bhuvneshwar’s commitment and self-control, emphasizing the effort the seasoned pacer has made to stay fit and secure another chance to compete internationally. Additionally, he was optimistic about Shami’s prospects of rejoining the Indian squad.Indeed, I believe that Mohammed Shami has performed admirably and has played excellent domestic cricket. Shami bhi aa rahe hain pichhe pichhe, tension mat lijiye, and now it is Bhuvi’s turn.”
Raina’s comments have fueled more conjecture about Shami’s future abroad. His remarks, however, are based on his own evaluation, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not formally confirmed the pacer’s possible return.
In March 2025, Shami played for India against New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy final. In June 2023, he played his most recent Test match against Australia in the World Test Championship final.
The Bengal pacer has been playing competitive cricket since his last international match in an effort to bolster his case for a comeback to the national team.
During the 2025–26 season, Shami had a strong domestic campaign, taking 37 wickets in seven Ranji Trophy games. Additionally, he contributed significantly to the Syed Mushtaq Ali and Vijay Hazare Trophies.
Will Mohammed Shami be back before the World Cup in 2027?
India will need to evaluate their pace-bowling options and choose the best combination for the 2027 ODI World Cup as it draws near. If Shami keeps up his form and satisfies the team’s fitness requirements, his experience competing in significant ICC events may be useful.
The selectors may have the chance to evaluate India’s fast-bowling options, including both younger and seasoned players, during their next overseas assignments. Shami’s domestic results may help his case, but the team’s needs and the selectors’ evaluation will ultimately determine whether or not he is chosen.
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For the time being, in order to get another chance to play for India, the Bengal pacer will need to keep up his regular performances and stay in shape.
