The Indian cricket selectors, led by chairman Ajit Agarkar, are set to convene later this month to pick the ODI squad for the upcoming home series against New Zealand. While the T20I team is already announced, the ODI selection holds significant intrigue, primarily revolving around the continued omission of veteran pacer Mohammed Shami.
The Bumrah Factor and Shami's Window of Opportunity
Reports indicate that premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is expected to be rested for the three-match ODI series. This potential absence has once again brought Mohammed Shami's name into the spotlight. Shami's case for selection is being built purely on the back of his compelling performances in domestic cricket, as the team management looks ahead to the 2027 ODI World Cup.
According to a report, Bumrah's likely rest is aimed at keeping him fresh for the T20I series against New Zealand and the imminent T20 World Cup, which begins next month in India. This scenario opens a crucial slot for an experienced seamer, making Shami's proven credentials and big-match temperament vital assets for the Men in Blue, especially with an eye on the global tournament in Africa next year.
Fitness and Form: Shami Answers Every Question
The most significant argument against Shami's selection has often been centered on fitness. However, the 35-year-old has responded emphatically on the field. His workload in recent domestic tournaments is a testament to his physical readiness.
Shami has bowled 145.2 overs in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, 26.5 overs in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, and 34.2 overs in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. These consistent outings for Bengal have showcased his endurance and silenced many doubts about his conditioning.
His numbers are equally impressive and impossible for the selectors to ignore. In the first half of the Ranji season, he claimed 20 wickets in seven matches at an average of 18.60, including a four-wicket and a five-wicket haul. He was lethal in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20s, taking 16 wickets in just seven games. His form has continued in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he has snapped up eight wickets in four matches with an exceptional economy rate of 5.53.
The Unanswered Question: Why is Shami Still Out?
The puzzle of Shami's absence persists. After emerging as the highest wicket-taker in the 2023 ODI World Cup, he was sidelined by injury. Though he returned for the England series and the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, he hasn't found a place since, despite his domestic exploits.
Selector Ajit Agarkar has previously faced questions on this topic, maintaining that Shami "needs to play some cricket." Agarkar even stated that Shami would have been on the flight to England in 2025 had he been fully fit. Now, with ample cricket played and dominant performances delivered, the rationale for his continued exclusion seems increasingly unclear.
Some speculate that age might be a factor, with the 2027 World Cup in mind. However, as the example of 35-year-old Mitchell Starc still terrorizing batters shows, age is just a number for world-class fast bowlers in peak form. Shami's current displays prove he belongs to that category.
With the selection meeting on the horizon, the pressure is on the panel to justify overlooking a fit, firing, and experienced campaigner whose numbers speak louder than any perceived limitation. The decision will reveal much about India's pace-bowling roadmap for the future.
