'No Such Verdict Passed': Mohammed Shami Gets Massive 'Comeback' Hope Amid Retirement Speculations

Mohammed Shami has been out of action for India for a while, but continues to grind and impress in the domestic circuit. Amid the heavy speculations, it appears that the Indian team management is looking beyond the veteran pacers.

Shami was not included in India's squad for the upcoming home series against South Africa, adding to the pacer's frustration. Over the last few months, Shami hasn't just proven his fitness and form by performing well in domestic outings, including the Ranji Trophy, but has also spoken publicly about his will to wear the India shirt again.

As buzz around Shami's potential international retirement gained momentum on social media, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra settled fans' nerves, saying no such verdict on the veteran's future has been passed yet.

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"I won't say that it's curtains. Many on social media are claiming that you won't see Shami playing for India again. I don't think that's the case. No such verdict has been passed by the jury. He can get a chance again, provided he keeps picking up wickets and lasts an entire season," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

India's current pace battery includes the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and even Harshit Rana in the running for Test selection. For the home assignment against South Africa, India picked the trio of Bumrah, Siraj, and Deep among pacers, whereas Nitish Kumar Reddy will be another pace bowling all-rounder.

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Despite the selection committee showing a clear intent toward building a team for the future, Chopra is hopeful for Shami's comeback to the national team. "There are a lot of vacant slots for premier fast bowlers. There are injuries and workload management as well. There are a lot of matches being played across formats, so I don't think that will be an issue. Don't worry about it. Shami's name will come," the 48-year-old added.

The 35-year-old Shami has played 64 Tests for India and has 229 wickets at an average of 27.71. His last appearance for India came in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand. However, he last played for India in Tests in the World Test Championship 2023 final against Australia.