Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return has raised hopes of Mohammed Shami’s comeback. Know Shami’s career, World Cup record and chances of returning before the 2027 ODI World Cup
New delhi: The return of experienced fast bowlers has once again become a talking point in Indian cricket. Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s comeback to the Indian team after a four-year gap has now raised another question: Could Mohammed Shami make a similar return? Former India batter Wasim Jaffer has strongly backed Shami and named Jasprit Bumrah, Shami and Mohammed Siraj as his first-choice pace attack for India’s 2027 ODI World Cup plans.
Bhuvneshwar’s Return Changes the Equation
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has returned to the Indian setup after almost four years. His comeback has shown that the selectors are still willing to consider experienced players when their performances justify selection.
That development has strengthened the case for Shami. He last played for India during the 2025 Champions Trophy, where he took nine wickets and played an important role in India’s title-winning campaign. Since then, he has remained outside the national setup despite continuing to perform in domestic cricket.
Jaffer has also urged the selectors not to overlook Shami. He believes the veteran pacer still has plenty to offer, particularly in India’s Test and ODI plans.
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Shami Has Built a Strong International Career
Shami made his international debut in 2013 and quickly established himself as one of India’s most reliable fast bowlers. His ability to move the new ball, attack the stumps and generate reverse swing with the older ball has made him a constant threat.
Injuries, however, have interrupted his career several times. After the 2023 World Cup, Shami spent a long period on the sidelines before returning to domestic cricket in late 2024. He eventually returned to international cricket in 2025.
His World Cup Record Makes the Strongest Case
Shami’s performances in World Cups remain one of the biggest arguments in favour of his return. He has taken 55 wickets in 18 World Cup matches. His 2023 campaign was particularly outstanding, as he claimed 24 wickets in just six matches and finished as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker.
His most memorable performance came in the semi-final against New Zealand. Shami produced a stunning 7/57 to help India reach the final. He dominated the New Zealand batting lineup and delivered one of the greatest World Cup spells by an Indian fast bowler.
Shami had already become India’s leading wicket-taker in World Cup history during the 2023 tournament. He reached 45 wickets in just 14 matches before eventually taking his overall World Cup tally to 55.
Can India Build a More Experienced Pace Attack?
If the selectors bring Shami back into the ODI setup, India could field a pace unit packed with experience. Bumrah can control the death overs, Shami can attack with the new ball and Siraj can create pressure with his aggressive approach. Bhuvneshwar’s swing and experience could provide another useful option.
However, Shami still faces strong competition from younger fast bowlers. His fitness, current form and workload will play a major role in determining whether he earns another international recall.
For now, Bhuvneshwar’s comeback has certainly strengthened Shami’s case. If the veteran pacer continues to take wickets and maintains his fitness, another return to India’s ODI setup before the 2027 World Cup could become a very realistic possibility.
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