Mohammed Shami (Getty Images)
Shami last featured for India during the 2025 Champions Trophy, while his most recent appearance in Test cricket came in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia. Since then, the fast bowler has continued to play domestic cricket and is set to represent Bengal in their opening fixture of the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season. Bhuvneshwar took his game to another level in IPL 2026, finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker with 28 scalps at an economy rate of 8.07.
He was one of the key figures in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s title-winning campaign, helping the franchise secure back-to-back titles.
Former India cricketer Suresh Raina believes Mohammed Shami could soon return to the national team, following the comeback of his former teammate Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who has earned a recall at the age of 36. “Making it to the Indian team at the age of 36 shows character.
He has been a very disciplined bowler and a very process-driven guy who has worked really hard on his body,” Raina said while speaking at the jersey launch of the Indian Soft Ball Cricket League. Raina credited Bhuvneshwar’s discipline, hard work and commitment to his fitness for his return to the Indian side, expressing confidence that Shami could also be back in contention after making an impact in domestic cricket. Raina was equally optimistic about Shami’s prospects, pointing to his performances in domestic cricket and suggesting that a return to the national team could be around the corner. His return to the Indian team has also offered a reminder that sustained discipline and an understanding of a bowler’s role can keep the door open to international cricket. As Raina suggested, Shami could be the next experienced pacer hoping to make a similar comeback.