Mohammed Shami has said that missing out on another opportunity to play for India would not be his loss, as the veteran fast bowler continues to wait for a national team recall. His comments came days after Bhuvneshwar Kumar returned to India’s T20I squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand, which begins later this month.
Shami, 36, last represented India in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Despite his impressive performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, an injury kept him out of action for a long period. His recovery was delayed by further fitness issues, and he returned to international cricket only in early 2025.
However, Shami has not played for India in any format since the Champions Trophy. Former chief selector Ajit Agarkar had repeatedly raised concerns about his fitness, which remained a major factor in the pacer’s continued absence from the national team.
Shami Responds To Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s India Return
Bhuvneshwar’s return to the T20I squad has once again brought attention to Shami’s international future. The Uttar Pradesh-born pacer earned his recall after delivering impressive performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where Shami has struggled to make a similar impact in recent seasons.
Speaking to Revsportz, Shami made it clear that Bhuvneshwar’s selection would not affect his approach to the game.
“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,” Shami said.
He also pointed out that he had continued to perform in domestic cricket and had demonstrated his fitness while playing for Bengal.
“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,” he added.
Shami Continues To Perform In Domestic Cricket
Despite being out of the national setup, Shami has continued to feature in domestic competitions. However, his performances have not yet resulted in an India recall, with the selectors increasingly turning to younger fast bowlers, including Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana.
Bhuvneshwar’s return has also raised expectations of a possible comeback in other formats, particularly ODIs. His selection has prompted questions about whether Shami could receive another opportunity if he continues to perform at the domestic level.
India’s Pace Attack Faces Questions
The performances of India’s current crop of fast bowlers have also brought experienced campaigners like Shami and Bhuvneshwar back into the discussion.
India’s bowling attack has faced challenges during the ongoing T20I series against the West Indies, with the batters enjoying favourable conditions on flat pitches. These performances have led to calls for the team to consider experienced options alongside its younger players.
