Mohammed Shami Team India Comeback: Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s reported return to the Indian cricket team for the New Zealand T20 series has raised an important question: Can veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami also make an international comeback?
Bengal coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla believes Shami still has the ability and determination to represent India.
Bengal Coach Confident About Mohammed Shami’s Return
Laxmi Ratan Shukla has expressed confidence in Shami’s future, describing him as an outstanding cricketer who motivates younger players in the dressing room.
Shukla believes the experienced pacer can deliver impressive performances in the upcoming Ranji Trophy season and strengthen his chances of returning to the national team.
He also hopes Shami will finish his cricketing career while representing India.
Mohammed Shami’s Domestic Cricket Performance
Although Shami’s IPL performances have reportedly been disappointing over the past two seasons, his domestic cricket record remains impressive.
During the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, Shami claimed 37 wickets in seven matches, helping Bengal reach the semi-finals.
He also delivered strong performances in limited-overs domestic competitions.
|
Tournament |
Matches |
Wickets |
|---|---|---|
|
Ranji Trophy 2025-26 |
7 |
37 |
|
Vijay Hazare Trophy |
7 |
15 |
|
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy |
7 |
16 |
These figures suggest that Shami remains capable of taking wickets across formats. However, competition for places in India’s pace attack could make his international return challenging.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s IPL Performance Strengthens Comeback Hopes
According to the report, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has returned to India’s T20 setup after approximately four years.
The experienced fast bowler reportedly claimed 45 wickets in 30 IPL matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru across the 2025 and 2026 seasons.
His ability to take early wickets with the new ball and deliver accurate yorkers during the death overs makes him a valuable option in T20 cricket.
There is also speculation about his possible inclusion in India’s ODI plans ahead of the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Will Mohammed Shami Get Another Opportunity?
Shami’s international comeback will depend on his fitness, consistency, domestic performances and the Indian selectors’ requirements.
While Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s reported selection could offer encouragement, Shami will need to maintain strong performances to compete for a place in the national squad.