Mohammed Shami’s big test in 2026: Comeback opportunity or final chance with Team India?

With the New Zealand ODI series starting January 11, veteran pacer Mohammed Shami is strongly in contention for a recall as selectors consider resting Jasprit Bumrah, raising questions about whether this marks a return or a farewell phase.

As 2026 begins, fortune appears to be turning in favour of India’s senior fast bowler Mohammed Shami. After being out of the national setup since the Champions Trophy, the experienced pacer is now being seriously considered for a return to Team India, with the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand emerging as a possible platform.

The three-match ODI series against New Zealand is scheduled to begin on January 11, and the team selection process is currently underway. Several players are hoping for good news, and among them is Shami, who is eager to start the new year with a recall to the national side.

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Shami last represented India in March 2025. Despite repeated efforts to regain his place, selectors continued to overlook him in favour of younger fast bowlers. However, the situation may now change, as discussions are reportedly underway to rest pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the New Zealand series. This has opened up a potential slot for Shami in the squad.

What has surprised many is Shami’s absence after the Champions Trophy, where he delivered a strong performance. In that tournament, he picked up nine wickets in five matches, finishing as India’s second-highest wicket-taker. Yet, following the tournament, he was suddenly sidelined as selectors shifted focus towards grooming young fast bowlers.

Determined to force his way back, Shami returned to domestic cricket with Bengal and delivered consistent performances across formats. In the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he has taken eight wickets in four matches at an economy rate of 5.53. Earlier, in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Shami claimed 16 wickets in seven matches, bowling at an average of 14.93 and an economy of 8.90. His red-ball form has also been impressive, with 20 wickets in seven innings in the Ranji Trophy.

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These performances have once again drawn the selectors’ attention, making a strong case for his inclusion based purely on merit.

However, questions remain. At 35, Shami’s age and recurring fitness concerns continue to be key factors. With the 2027 ODI World Cup in mind, the BCCI has already begun focusing on younger fast bowlers. There has also been growing opinion that if Shami is to be phased out, he deserves at least one final opportunity rather than a quiet exit.

This has led to speculation that the New Zealand series could either mark Shami’s comeback or serve as a farewell window.
For now, all signs suggest that Mohammed Shami’s return for the New Zealand series is highly likely. Whether it becomes the start of a renewed chapter or the closing act of an illustrious career remains the biggest question.

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