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Mohammed Shami is not ready to give up on his India chances, but the experienced fast bowler has made it clear that his present priority is to deliver for Bengal in the upcoming Ranji Trophy 2026-27.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s surprise return to the India national cricket team for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand has brought Shami back into the spotlight, as he is still waiting for another chance at the international level. Earlier, Gautam Gambhir issued a warning over flat pitches, saying 'bowlers' careers are at stake'.
Mohammed Shami reacts to Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s India comeback amid selection buzz
Actually, the Indian selection committee is preparing to announce the Test and ODI squads for the upcoming New Zealand tour. With Mohammed Shami continuing to deliver in domestic cricket, the big question is whether his performances will help him return to the Indian team.
The 36-year-old is currently in Kalyani with his Bengal teammates for their Ranji Trophy 2026-27 opening match against Delhi. When asked about Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s selection, Shami said that he was happy for his fellow fast bowler but was not thinking about comparisons.
Mohammed Shami was quoted as saying by Revsportz, "Bhuvneshwar Kumar got the chance to play for India, and that’s good for him. But his selection doesn’t concern me. Wherever I get the chance to play, I will give my best. Right now, my focus is firmly on this Ranji match.”
Mohammed Shami opens up on India snub
Shami also pointed out that he has been delivering for Bengal and proving his fitness over the past two to three years. The fast bowler believes that he has continued to do his job on the field, and missing out on another India opportunity would not take away from what he has achieved.
The senior fast bowler added, “The same thing has been happening with me for the last two or three years. I have been performing and have proved my fitness for Bengal. If I don’t get the chance to play for India again, it’s not my loss.”
Shami last played a Test for India in the 2023 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia at The Oval. His most recent ODI appearance was in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final, where he finished as the joint-highest wicket-taker with nine wickets in five matches. Amid this, Ravindra Jadeja shares a playful message for CSK, RR days after selector-role question.
Mohammed Shami’s impressive numbers across all formats
Mohammed Shami has taken 462 wickets for India in international cricket across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. The experienced fast bowler has built a strong reputation with his excellent seam bowling, ability to swing the ball in reverse, and skill to trouble batters in different conditions.
In 64 test matches, Shami has claimed 229 wickets at an average of 27.71, including six five-wicket hauls, while the pacer has taken 206 wickets in 108 ODI matches at an average of 24.05.
In T20 internationals, Shami has claimed 27 wickets in 25 matches at an average of 28.19 and an economy rate of 8.95, with his best bowling figures being 3/15. With 462 international wickets to his name, Shami remains one of India's experienced fast bowlers.
Now, Shami will look to make an impact for Bengal alongside fellow fast bowlers Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep in the upcoming Ranji Trophy campaign for Bengal.
