Overview:
In the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shami has proven his consistency, taking eight wickets in four games.
India are likely to bring back Mohammed Shami for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, with the three-match contest beginning January 11.
Shami has not been part of the Indian side for almost a year and his last outing being in the Champions Trophy final in March 2025. A subpar IPL season led to his exclusion from the Test squad for the England tour, with fitness and form issues flagged.
The selectors have insisted that Shami needs to regain both match fitness and his rhythm in domestic cricket before making a return to the national setup.
“He’s been working on his fitness for the Test series, but I don’t believe he’s currently fit enough to play five Tests. His fitness isn’t where it should be. The medical team has informed us that he has been ruled out of the (England) series,” Ajit Agarkar had said.
Since then, Shami has been impressive in domestic cricket, putting in match-winning performances in the Ranji Trophy and continuing his form in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. However, a return to the T20I side remains unlikely in the near future.
In the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shami has proven his consistency, taking eight wickets in four games. His effective spells have been a major factor in Bengal’s three victories, as they try to recover from a disappointing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy season.
According to sources close to India Today, Shami has been working hard off the field and is optimistic about a recall to the ODI squad. However, it was noted that no official notification has been sent to the bowler regarding his selection. The ODI squad for the New Zealand series is likely to be announced on January 3 or 4.