Mohammed Shami Back On The Radar: Veteran Pacer Could Replace Rested Bumrah Vs New Zealand

New Delhi: There is a strong discussion again on the name of fast bowler Mohammed Shami. He did not play any match for India after playing the Champions Trophy 2025 final in March, but now there is a possibility of him being selected in the ODI series against New Zealand from January 11. A source related to the team selection has indicated that Shami's name is not being considered just as a formality, but seriously.

What are the selectors thinking?

According to a BCCI source, Shami's case is stuck only on fitness. There is no doubt on the remaining aspects. In the words of the formula, "He remains in the conversation. It is wrong to say that he is out of the running. If fitness remains as expected, a comeback is possible. Selection in the New Zealand series would not be a surprise."

It is also believed that if the body continues to cooperate, then it is not impossible to see Shami till the 2027 World Cup.

How was your recent performance in domestic cricket?

Shami's domestic form is a matter of relief for the selectors.

• Vijay Hazare Trophy: 3 matches, 6 wickets
• Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: 7 matches, 16 wickets, playing for Bengal

This performance shows that the long break did not affect his skills. The edge of the ball is still the same.

Why might Shami be important?

Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be rested for the series. In such a situation, the need for an experienced pacer increases. In the last ODI series against South Africa, the young pacers took limited advantage of the opportunity they got. None of Arshdeep, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna made a steady impact. In such an environment, Shami's presence can change the balance of the bowling unit.

Where is their place in the bigger picture?

Shami does not currently appear in the plans for the T20 World Cup 2026, but the window for a place in the ODI and Test teams has not closed.

• Last Test: WTC 2023 Final
• Last T20I: February 2025, against England

Whether he gets a chance to make a comeback now or not will depend on the fitness report and team combination before selection.

Now what's next?

The team will be announced in the coming days. If Shami's name comes up, the Indian pace attack will get the experience, the lack of which was clearly visible in the past months. His return could mean not just selection but also a return of confidence in the bowling department.