Mohammed Shami's Return Date Revealed! Pacer likely to return in India's squad in THIS series

Mohammed Shami last played for the Indian Cricket Team in the ICC Champions Trophy in March 2025.

India’s star pacer Mohammed Shami is likely to make a comeback in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. According to a report by NDTV, selectors are looking forward to inducting Shami in India’s squad for the campaign following his impressive performance in domestic cricket.

The right-arm pacer last played for India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in March, where he finished as the team’s joint-highest wicket-taker with nine wickets in five matches.

Moreover, Shami’s last test match was against Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2021-23 final in June 2023. The 35-year-old pacer has battled with ankle and knee injuries since the Cricket World Cup 2023, which has affected his national comeback. He also underwent surgeries for the same.

However, he rose to the limelight earlier this year, following his marvellous performance in domestic cricket for Bengal in Ranji Trophy 2025-26. With 16 wickets in seven games in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), Shami was a stand-out performer in the tournament.

Recently, he also rocked the field with his performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) 2025-26. Across four games so far, the veteran Indian pacer has clinched eight wickets.

Hence, his impressive performance has impressed selectors, and they are keen to feature him in the upcoming campaign against the Black Caps.

Mohammed Shami might be picked for the ODI series against New Zealand- Reports

Speaking to NDTV, a BCCI source revealed that Shami could be selected for the ODI series against New Zealand, and he might also play in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027.

“Mohammed Shami is being discussed on a regular basis. He is not out of reckoning. The only concern is about his fitness. A bowler of his calibre will get wickets. It is wrong to say he is out of the selection radar. He is looking good for the New Zealand One-Day series,” the BCCI source said.

“Do not be surprised if he is picked, given his experience and ability to take wickets at will. Even the 2027 World Cup is a possibility,” he added.

Earlier this year, Shami expressed his disappointment after being overlooked for the ODI series against Australia. He also believed that he was fit to play for the national team, which was proven by his excellent performance in domestic cricket.

Meanwhile, India and New Zealand will lock horns in three ODIs starting January 11 in Vadodara. After the ODI series, five T20I games will also be played. While the selectors have announced the T20I team, the ODI team is expected to be announced in the first week of January.

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