Mohammed Shami’s India comeback doors swing open just a day after New Zealand ODIs snub

Just a day after being overlooked for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, the narrative around Mohammed Shami's India comeback has shifted from doubt to strategic possibility. Mohammed Shami can return to the selectors' radar for the upcoming events.

Is Mohammed Shami's India Comeback On?

The Indian selectors announced the ODI squad for the upcoming three-match home series against New Zealand, starting January 11, and once again, Mohammed Shami was overlooked.

Young guns like Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh were preferred over the proven fast bowler for the New Zealand series. The omission sparked fresh debate, especially considering Shami’s experience, match-winning impact, and his ongoing performances in domestic cricket.

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His last appearance for India came during the triumphant ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, making many wonder whether it is the end of the Indian pacer’s career at the international level.

However, the former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has strongly countered any notion that Shami's career is finished now. Pathan believes the senior fast bowler is far from finished and that the doors to the national team are still very much open.

Irfan Pathan's Strong Defense: "As long as you play cricket, you have to keep proving yourself"

Pathan feels Shami’s career should not be judged by one or two selection calls. He pointed out that Shami is not a newcomer but is one of India’s most successful fast bowlers.

Irfan Pathan said on his YouTube channel, “The biggest talking point is Mohammed Shami. What is his future? He’s not someone who came yesterday, played a few matches, and left. He has taken 450–500 international wickets, which is a huge number.

If you have taken more than 400 wickets and then you get dropped and questions are raised about your fitness—that happens with everyone. As long as you play cricket, you have to keep proving yourself.”

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200 Overs Not Enough? Pathan Orders Shami to Set IPL 2026 on Fire

The former all-rounder also stressed that Shami has already done enough to answer fitness concerns. The pacer has bowled more than 200 overs this season across formats, which clearly shows his workload capacity. While the selectors have not shared the reason behind Shami’s snub, Pathan has questioned the selection committee’s motive.

Taking a dig at Ajit Agarkar and his team, Pathan said, “What more improvement is needed? Only the selection committee knows what they are thinking.”

The cricket pundit also believes the upcoming IPL 2026 could be the biggest turning point for Shami. He feels a strong IPL season, especially with the new ball, could open the door for Shami.

Pathan signed off by saying, “If I were him, I would go and play the IPL and create havoc. I would take the new ball and perform at such a level. Domestic cricket performances are discussed, but when the IPL comes and you show your old rhythm and fitness, then no one can ignore you. The whole world watches the IPL. If you perform there, you make your place in the squad again. I believe his doors should not be closed.”