Mohammed Shami Refuses to Give Up on India Return, Targets 2027 ODI World Cup
Dropped from the national team but not from contention in his own mind, Mohammed Shami remains determined to make an India comeback. The veteran fast bowler, who last represented India during the 2025 Champions Trophy, is continuing to prepare for another domestic season with the hope of earning a place in India’s squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Despite producing another outstanding domestic campaign, Shami has repeatedly been ignored by the selectors. Yet, the door has never been officially shut on the 35-year-old, whose experience and record continue to make a strong case for a return.
Selectors Unconvinced Despite Strong Domestic Form
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had earlier indicated that Shami was currently fit only for T20 cricket, a view that surprised many considering the pacer’s performances in domestic cricket.
Shami finished the Ranji Trophy season with 37 wickets in seven matches before adding another 15 wickets in seven Vijay Hazare Trophy games, reaffirming that he remains one of India’s most accomplished fast bowlers.
According to his childhood coach, Mohammed Badruddin, Shami has worked even harder during the off-season, losing five kilograms while focusing on improving his fitness.
“Shami is positive, motivated and fully committed to the upcoming season. If India calls, he will be ready,” Badruddin told India Today.
India’s Pace Problems Strengthen Shami’s Case
India’s fast-bowling unit has struggled with injuries and inconsistent performances over the past year. Harshit Rana remains unavailable after another injury setback, while Gurnoor Brar endured a difficult ODI series in England after being fast-tracked into the national side.
Frequent changes to India’s pace attack have prevented the team from building a settled bowling unit, increasing the value of experienced campaigners like Shami. Badruddin believes that experience will be vital, particularly with the 2027 ODI World Cup scheduled to be played in South Africa.
“Conditions there demand experienced fast bowlers. Shami has performed well in those conditions before and can still contribute,” he said.
Workload Management Under Scanner
The veteran coach also questioned India’s approach to managing its fast bowlers, arguing that excessive workloads and an overreliance on gym-based training are contributing to recurring injuries. According to Badruddin, fast bowlers require more outdoor conditioning, running sessions and adequate recovery time between assignments to stay fit over long periods.
Still Waiting for Clarity
Shami’s international future remains uncertain, but his performances suggest he still has plenty to offer. His record in South Africa—44 wickets in 11 international matches at an average of 22.68—only strengthens the argument for keeping him in India’s plans ahead of the next ODI World Cup.
Whether the selectors hand him another opportunity or decide to move on, one thing is clear: Mohammed Shami has not stopped believing that his international story is unfinished.
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