Arjit Kumar - Wednesday, Dec 31, 2025The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors are preparing to take a major 'U-turn' regarding experienced fast bowler Mohammed Shami. Shami, who has been sidelined for a long time due to fitness issues and his increasing age (35 years), is now back on the selectors' radar. Team India is now focusing on the 2027 ODI World Cup, where Shami's experience could prove to be a trump card for the team.
According to media reports, BCCI sources have indicated that Shami is no longer out of the selection race. The selectors believe that a bowler like Shami possesses a natural wicket-taking ability; his fitness was the only concern. Now, there are reports that Shami might make a comeback in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, which would be a big surprise for the fans.
The biggest reason for Shami's potential return is his 'magical' performance in domestic cricket. Looking at the statistics:
In total, these 37 wickets taken recently have forced the selectors to consider whether it would be right to prepare the 2027 roadmap without Shami?
After the 2023 World Cup, Shami had to battle serious ankle and knee injuries.
Due to surgery and a long rehabilitation period at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), he was out of the team. During this time, Shami also took a dig at the selectors, to which chief selector Ajit Agarkar clarified that the priority was the player's 100% fitness. Now, by playing consecutive matches for Bengal, Shami has proven his fitness.The Indian team management and selection committee are now looking towards the future. For the 2027 World Cup, they need a reliable wicket-taker who can take wickets in pressure situations. However, the path for Shami is still challenging—competing with young fast bowlers and maintaining fitness for a long period are major challenges. But the door that once seemed closed is now ready to open completely.
