Mohammed Shami Set for Comeback in New Zealand ODIs: Report

Mohammed Shami Likely to Return for New Zealand ODIs as Selectors Monitor Fitness and Form

India’s pace bowling unit could soon see the return of one of its most experienced campaigners. According to recent reports, Mohammed Shami is likely to be picked for the upcoming New Zealand ODIs, marking a significant moment in his international comeback journey.

Shami has not played an international match since the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where India faced New Zealand in Dubai on March 9. Since then, questions around fitness and workload management have kept him out of the national setup. However, recent developments suggest that his return is no longer a distant possibility.

Selectors Closely Monitoring Shami’s Fitness

According to sources, the BCCI selection committee has been keeping a close eye on Mohammed Shami’s progress in domestic cricket. While fitness remains the only concern, selectors reportedly believe that a bowler of his experience and skill does not lose his wicket-taking instinct easily.

A BCCI source has indicated that Shami continues to be discussed regularly during selection meetings and remains firmly within the selection radar. His ability to deliver breakthroughs, especially in pressure situations, is seen as a major asset ahead of the New Zealand ODIs.

The source further suggested that Shami’s experience could even make him a long-term option leading into major tournaments beyond the immediate series.

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Impressive Domestic Form Strengthens Case

Mohammed Shami’s performances in domestic competitions have played a key role in reviving discussions around his selection. In the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26, Shami picked up six wickets in just three matches, showing sharpness and rhythm.

His form in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 has been even more impressive. Representing Bengal, Shami claimed 16 wickets in seven Elite Group C matches, underlining his ability to adapt across formats despite limited recent international exposure.

Such consistent performances have strengthened his case for inclusion in the New Zealand ODIs, particularly when India is expected to rest senior fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah for workload management.

A Void in India’s Pace Attack

With Jasprit Bumrah likely to be rested, India’s pace attack will require a leader who can handle responsibility in home conditions. Mohammed Shami’s potential inclusion could fill that void.

In India’s last ODI series against South Africa, the pace unit included Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna. While Krishna impressed briefly in the series decider at Vizag, his overall performance did not fully convince selectors.

Shami’s experience, accuracy, and ability to extract movement even on flatter pitches could offer balance and control, especially in the middle overs — an area where India has occasionally struggled.

Shami’s Recent International Absence

Despite his domestic success, Mohammed Shami’s absence from international cricket has been notable. He last played a Test match during the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023 and his most recent T20I appearance came against England in Mumbai on February 2, 2025.

Although he was not selected for the T20 World Cup 2026, the ODI format appears to be the most suitable platform for his return, given his proven record in white-ball cricket.

Shami was the highest wicket-taker in the ODI World Cup 2023 and remains India’s leading wicket-taker in ICC white-ball tournaments — credentials that continue to weigh heavily in his favor.

Why the New Zealand ODIs Matter

The New Zealand ODIs, beginning January 11 in Vadodara, represent more than just another bilateral series. For Mohammed Shami, it could be an opportunity to re-establish himself in the Indian setup and stake a claim for future global tournaments.

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For the team management, his return would add depth, experience, and leadership to a fast-bowling unit in transition.

Final Thoughts

Mohammed Shami’s potential return for the New Zealand ODIs reflects India’s emphasis on experience blended with form. While fitness clearance remains crucial, his recent performances suggest he is edging closer to an international comeback.

If selected, Shami’s presence could not only strengthen India’s bowling attack but also provide valuable guidance to younger pacers. As selectors finalize the squad, all eyes will be on whether one of India’s most reliable fast bowlers makes his much-anticipated return.

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