Stories
Mohammed Shami Presses Claims for 2027 ODI World Cup with Stellar Domestic Form
- •Veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami continues to make a strong case for an India comeback with impressive domestic performances for Bengal and East Zone.
- •Shami recently claimed four wickets while conceding just 30 runs in 17.3 overs, including nine maidens, during a Ranji Trophy match against Delhi.
- •At 36, Shami boasts remarkable domestic numbers across formats, including 37 wickets in seven Ranji Trophy matches and strong showings in white-ball tournaments.
- •Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recent T20I recall after a four-year gap has fueled discussions about whether selectors should adopt a similar approach for Shami in ODIs.
- •As India shapes plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, Shami's proven track record, experience, and ability to take wickets make him a compelling candidate.
Key Questions Answered
Mohammed Shami has made a strong case for an international comeback through consistent domestic performances across formats. He claimed 37 wickets in seven Ranji Trophy matches, 15 wickets in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and 16 wickets in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy during the 2025-26 season, followed by seven wickets in the 2026 Duleep Trophy and four wickets against Delhi.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar earned a recall to India's T20I squad after a four-year gap following impressive IPL performances. While Bhuvneshwar's return is strictly for T20Is, it demonstrates that an extended absence from international cricket does not automatically close a player's prospects, sparking discussions about whether Shami's strong domestic record deserves a similar pathway back for ODIs.
Shami is a proven performer in ICC events, finishing as India's highest wicket-taker at the 2023 ODI World Cup with 24 scalps in seven matches. With the 2027 World Cup co-hosted by South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, his experience and ability to extract movement and control the middle overs make him a valuable option for conditions that favor batting.
