Is Team India Preparing the Way for Mohammed Shamis Return?
Mohammed Shami’s long-awaited return to international cricket could finally be edging closer. Sidelined from the Indian setup since the 2025 Champions Trophy, the experienced pacer has quietly rebuilt his case through consistent performances in domestic cricket. His recent appearance in the Ranji Trophy has once again put him in the spotlight, especially after he was seen interacting with Indian selectors following Bengal’s latest match.
Shami has been putting in the hard yards in the domestic circuit, determined to earn his place back in the national side. Representing Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, he has played a key role in their run to the semi-finals. While Bengal’s qualification itself was notable, it was Shami’s all-round contribution that truly stood out and reignited discussions around his international future.
1. Shami Makes an Impact in the Knockouts
Bengal faced Arunachal Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy quarter-finals, with the opposition batting first. Shami shared the new ball for Bengal and bowled 17 disciplined overs in the first innings, finishing with figures of 1 for 37 while maintaining excellent control over line and length.
What followed was even more eye-catching. Coming in down the order, Shami surprised everyone with an aggressive batting display, scoring a quickfire 53 off just 33 deliveries, including seven fours and three sixes. His cameo added crucial momentum as Bengal piled up a massive total of 629 runs.
Though his bowling load was limited in the second innings, where he bowled three economical overs for seven runs, Shami’s influence on the match was clear. After the game, his brief interaction with BCCI selectors further fueled speculation about a potential comeback, despite his omission from the latest central contracts list.
2. A Strong Ranji Trophy Campaign
Shami’s overall Ranji Trophy campaign has been impressive from the very start, keeping him in conversations whenever national squads are announced. While fans have repeatedly questioned his exclusion, his domestic numbers continue to strengthen his case.
Mohammed Shami – Ranji Trophy 2025/26
Innings: 11
Overs: 197.2
Maidens: 43
Wickets: 28
Average: 18.03
Economy: 2.55
Four-wicket hauls: 1
Five-wicket hauls: 2
Known primarily for his bowling, Shami’s performance with the bat in the quarter-finals offered a reminder of his lower-order value, evoking memories of his contributions in overseas Test matches for India.
3. International Career at a Glance
Shami’s international journey has been marked by brilliance interrupted by injuries. Time and again, strong performances have been followed by fitness setbacks, making comebacks a recurring challenge. Now, he finds himself once again fighting for a return to the highest level.
Mohammed Shami – International Career
Innings: 254
Overs: 2891.5
Maidens: 417
Wickets: 462
Average: 26.10
Strike rate: 37.50
Five-wicket hauls: 12
A proven match-winner in ICC tournaments, Shami has delivered consistently on the biggest stages, including World Cups and Champions Trophy events. However, he has not represented India since the 2025 Champions Trophy, and questions around his fitness remain.
At present, Test cricket appears to be the most suitable format for his return, though he last featured in the longest format during the WTC final in 2023. Whether selectors take the plunge remains to be seen, but Shami’s domestic performances suggest that a comeback may no longer be a distant dream.
By Anupam Pandey, SportsCafe Editor
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