Stories
Pick Mohammed Shami For 2027 World Cup: Mohammed Kaif Urges India
- •Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif believes bowling and fielding will be the decisive factors for India at the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa.
- •Kaif predicts that pitches in South Africa will be flat and heavily favor batters, making the selection of skilful and experienced bowlers crucial.
- •The 36-year-old veteran pacer Mohammed Shami has been strongly recommended for a comeback due to his proven track record in ICC tournaments.
- •Shami was the leading wicket-taker in the 2023 ODI World Cup, claiming 24 wickets in just 7 matches after getting his opportunity.
- •Kaif noted that Shami is currently proving his fitness by playing domestic cricket and bowling long spells, proving that age should not be a barrier for selection.
Key Questions Answered
Mohammed Kaif recommended bringing back 36-year-old veteran Mohammed Shami because he believes South African pitches will be flat and batting-friendly, requiring experienced and skilful bowlers who perform well in ICC events. Shami was the highest wicket-taker in the 2023 tournament with 24 wickets in 7 matches and is currently proving his fitness by playing domestic cricket.
Although Mohammed Shami was initially part of the squad as a backup, he entered the playing XI during India's fourth match against New Zealand following Hardik Pandya's injury and immediately claimed a five-wicket haul. He went on to take 24 wickets across just 7 matches, finishing the competition as its highest wicket-taker.
Dinesh Karthik believes that the Indian team has already moved beyond Mohammed Shami and that there is no point in going back to him for the 2027 World Cup. He noted that team selectors have chosen to back younger pacers like Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, and Gurnoor Brar instead.
