Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return has given hope to Shami too. Bhuvi made it to Team India for the first time since November 2022 and was selected for the T20 series against New Zealand.
Is there a possibility of Shami’s comeback after Bhuvi? Bengal coach Lakshmi Ratan Shukla believes that Shami still has the hunger to play for Team India and can make a strong comeback.
Shami’s performance in domestic cricket has been superb. In the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy, he took 37 wickets in just 7 matches and was instrumental in taking Bengal to the semi-finals.
A comeback performance in domestic cricket is important for Shami. He took 15 wickets in 7 matches in Vijay Hazare Trophy and 16 wickets in 7 matches in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
The biggest reason for Bhubaneswar’s comeback has been the IPL performance. He took a total of 45 wickets for RCB in the 2025 and 2026 IPL seasons, including 28 in 2026.
Shami’s IPL performance has also been challenging. In the 2026 IPL, he took 12 wickets in 13 matches, while his economy was 9 runs per over.
Shami’s experience can still be useful for the team. Several cricket experts, including former Indian player Hanuma Vihari, have spoken of giving veteran bowlers another chance in view of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Now Shami’s eyes will be on returning to Team India. One thing that Bhuvneshwar’s return after four years has made clear is that the door is not completely closed for veteran players based on good performances. (PC:PTI/X)
IND vs WI: 200 runs not yet scored in Ranchi, will Team India break this record?
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