Mohammed Shami has expressed his desire for an Indian comeback recently. Speaking ahead of Bengal’s Ranji Trophy opener, the 36-year-old said he has been performing and proving his fitness for his state side. He said that if India never calls him again, it will not be his loss. The remark came just days after Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s surprise recall to the T20I squad for New Zealand. While many saw Bhuvi’s return as a possible signal of openness toward experienced pacers, Shami made it clear the selection did not concern him. His focus remains on the job in front of him.
After a brilliant 2023 World Cup campaign that was cut short by injury, his recovery stretched longer than expected. He returned for the 2025 Champions Trophy, contributed with wickets, and then disappeared from national plans once more. Selectors cited ongoing fitness doubts even as Shami piled up wickets for Bengal in domestic cricket, including 37 in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy at an average under 17. Whether the comeback happens or not, he seems prepared to walk either path without looking back.
Mohammed Shami has not played for India since Champions Trophy 2025
Mohammed Shami’s international career has been excellent. Across 64 Tests he has claimed 229 wickets at 27.71. In 108 ODIs he has taken 206 wickets at 24.05, including a record 7 for 57 against New Zealand in the 2023 World Cup semi-final. His 25 T20Is brought 27 wickets. He was India’s leading wicket-taker in the 2023 World Cup with 24 scalps and finished as joint-top for India in the 2025 Champions Trophy with nine.
His last appearance in the blue jersey came on 9 March 2025 in the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in Dubai. That match marked the end of a short return after more than a year on the sidelines with a serious heel injury that followed the 2023 World Cup. His final Test was even earlier during the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023. Since the Champions Trophy he has not been selected in any format.
