Kolkata, October 21, 2026: Veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has insisted that he has not given up hope of returning to the national team despite being left out of India’s squad for the upcoming multi-format tour of New Zealand.
The 36-year-old pacer remains confident in his ability to perform at the highest level and says he continues to train seriously while waiting for another opportunity. Shami acknowledged that selection is beyond his control but maintained that fitness, preparation and performance remain his responsibility.
Shami Determined to Return to Team India
Shami has made it clear that representing India remains an important goal. Despite his absence from the national setup, he continues to work towards staying match-ready and believes he can still contribute at the international level.
The experienced pacer has emphasised that he will keep preparing and leave the final selection decision to the selectors.
Left Out of India’s New Zealand Tour
Shami has not been included in India’s squads for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, which features T20 Internationals, One-Day Internationals and Test matches.
His omission has renewed questions about his international future, particularly given his experience and record across formats. However, the bowler remains hopeful that consistent performances and fitness will help him earn another call-up.
Champions Trophy 2025 Was His Last India Appearance
Shami last represented India during the ICC Champions Trophy in March 2025. He played an important role in India’s successful campaign and finished the tournament among the team’s leading wicket-takers.
His contribution during the competition underlined his value as an experienced fast bowler capable of delivering in major international tournaments.
Shami Rejects Fitness Concerns
Questions surrounding Shami’s fitness resurfaced after he was left out of Bengal’s Ranji Trophy match against Services.
However, the pacer reportedly described the decision as tactical rather than fitness-related. He pointed to the conditions, which favoured spin bowling and offered limited assistance to fast bowlers.
Shami has also expressed confidence in his physical condition and ability to handle the demands of long spells, pushing back against speculation about his readiness for red-ball cricket.
Spinners Dominated Bengal’s Ranji Trophy Match
The conditions in the Bengal-Services contest appeared to support Shami’s explanation for his absence.
According to The Indian Express, spinners accounted for 39 of the match’s 40 wickets in the low-scoring encounter. The figures highlighted the extent to which the pitch favoured spin, although they do not independently establish the reason for Shami’s non-selection.
Continuing His Domestic Cricket Push
While awaiting another opportunity with India, Shami has continued his efforts in domestic cricket and remains focused on demonstrating his capabilities through performances.
His experience across formats could remain an asset, but a return to the national side will depend on factors including form, fitness, team requirements and the selectors’ assessment.
462 International Wickets Highlight His Experience
Shami has claimed 462 international wickets in 197 matches across Tests, ODIs and T20 Internationals, according to the figures cited by Reuters.
He was also India’s leading wicket-taker at the 2023 ODI World Cup, reinforcing his reputation as one of the country’s most accomplished fast bowlers.
Injuries Have Interrupted His Career
Shami’s recent career has been affected by injuries involving his ankle and leg. Following the 2023 ODI World Cup, he underwent surgery and spent an extended period away from international cricket before returning for the Champions Trophy in 2025.
Those interruptions have complicated his efforts to maintain a regular place in the Indian side, particularly as other fast bowlers have emerged and competed for selection.
Shami Believes Age Should Not Define His Future
At 36, Shami faces competition from a younger generation of Indian fast bowlers. Nevertheless, he remains confident that performance and fitness should carry greater weight than age alone.
His immediate priority is to continue training, stay available for domestic cricket and demonstrate that he can meet the demands of international competition.
India Comeback Remains Shami’s Goal
Shami has acknowledged that he cannot predict whether another India call-up will come. However, he is unwilling to abandon the possibility and intends to continue working towards it.
For the experienced pacer, the message remains clear: keep training, maintain fitness and be ready if the selectors offer him another chance to represent India.
Source: Reuters, The Indian Express
Supreme News Network
