New Delhi: Senior fast bowler Mohammed Shami is likely to return to the Indian one day international setup for the upcoming three match home series against New Zealand, scheduled to begin on January 11 in Vadodara. The experienced pacer has not featured for India since the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai, but recent developments suggest his comeback could be imminent.
Shami has remained under close observation by the national selectors, with particular focus on his fitness and workload management. Those tracking the selection process indicate that he remains firmly in contention and is being discussed regularly, given his proven ability to deliver in high pressure situations. His experience and consistent wicket taking record continue to weigh heavily in his favour.
The Bengal fast bowler has been in impressive form on the domestic circuit this season. In the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26, he has picked up six wickets from three matches, while in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy he claimed 16 wickets across seven Elite Group C fixtures. These performances have strengthened his case for a recall and demonstrated that his sharpness with the ball remains intact.
Shami’s last Test appearance for India came in the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023, while his most recent T20 international outing was against England in February 2025. Although he was not selected for the T20 World Cup 2026 plans, his white ball credentials remain formidable. He was the highest wicket taker in the 2023 ODI World Cup and continues to be India’s most successful bowler across ICC white ball tournaments.
The potential opening has been created by the likelihood of Jasprit Bumrah being rested for the New Zealand series. In Bumrah’s absence, Shami could be entrusted with leading the pace attack, bringing control, experience and strike power to the bowling unit.
India’s most recent ODI series against South Africa saw a relatively young pace group in action. While there were flashes of promise, the overall impact was mixed, prompting the team management to consider a seasoned campaigner for the New Zealand challenge.
If selected, Shami’s return would not only strengthen India’s immediate plans but could also play a role in shaping the long term roadmap toward the 2027 World Cup.
