senior Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami may be ready to make a comeback to the international cricket in the following three match series of ODI against New Zealand, which begins January 11. According to the reports, the 35 year old pacer is strongly in the select talk over the white ball series.
Shami made his last appearance in March 2025 when he was in the ICC champions trophy final against New Zealand. Though he produced great results in that tournament, he has since then not been observed in the national squad, something that was surprising to most people among the followers of cricket.
Sources near the BCCI have disclosed that the selectors have been keenly following the performances of Shami in the domestic cricket. His name has allegedly featured often in the selection games and his experience is being considered a great asset before big tournaments in future.
The source indicates that Shami stands in a highly competitive position and has not been eliminated because of form. The fitness is the only aspect that is under close observation. Should he pass this obstacle, it can be said that his inclusion in the New Zealand ODI series is quite a possibility. The source also indicated that Shami remained a possibility in long term plans by India such as 2027 ODI world cup.
The ostracism of Shami following the Champions Trophy was a topic which created eyebrows, particularly considering that he was among the best in India in the tournament. He was the joint top wicket taker of India with nine wickets and was supposed to play in the ODI set up.
The Bengal fast bowler has also since maintained himself in the limelight through good performances with domestic competitions. He has already registered six wickets in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy and in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy he has picked 16 wickets in the seven matches that he has played which demonstrates that he still has a lot to contribute.
As Jasprit Bumrah is expected to be rested during the New Zealand series as a way of managing his workload during the run-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup, a vacuum has also developed in the pace attack of India. This may play to the advantage of Shami because of his desire of India to strike a balance between experience and fitness in their bowling team.
This will be decided upon once the squad is announced, but the reintroduction of Mohammed Shami to international cricket now appears much nearer than it has been in months.
