Not Retiring Yet! Mohammed Shami Makes His India Comeback Goal Clear

Mohammed Shami opens up on his comeback goal [Source: AFP]

Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami was not included in India’s recent squads for New Zealand, thus extending his prolonged absence from international cricket. However, despite multiple setbacks, Shami refuses to quit.

Shami, who last played for India in the Champions Trophy 2025, was snubbed from the upcoming New Zealand tour. But on the contrary, his old teammate, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, was recalled into the T20I side after a 4-year hiatus.

Mohammed Shami still hopeful of India comeback

Certainly, the snub of Mohammed Shami hurt a lot of fans as they believe he is fit and ready to return to international cricket. And on a personal note, Shami is also hopeful as he shut down retirement rumours once again.

Talking to the media, he said that the hope to represent India is still alive. He added that people in any profession should have a goal and openly acknowledged that returning to the Indian team remains one of his goals.

“Why should I give up hope? The hope should always be there. In any profession, you should always have a goal. I don’t deny I have that goal,” Shami said, as quoted by The Hindu.

There had been questions about Shami’s fitness because his recent domestic appearances had included relatively short spells of bowling. He rejected the suggestion that outsiders could judge his fitness simply by looking at how many overs he bowled in a match.

Mohammed Shami Hits Back At Fitness Critics After Taking 4 Wickets Against Delhi

Shami skipped his recent Ranji Trophy clash

Interestingly, concerns over Mohammed Shami fitness sparked again after he skipped Bengal’s recent Ranji Trophy game vs Services. However, the pacer clarified that his decision was based on the pitch conditions, not a fitness problem or frustration over non-selection into the Indian side.

He explained that the pitch was so favourable to spin bowling that playing a fast bowler like him would have served little purpose. Instead, he wanted to give younger players an opportunity to gain experience.

“You could see the condition of the pitch, right? There was no point in playing on this wicket and bowling two to four overs. It was better that the youngsters got a run. The more they play, the more experience they will get. My motive is that when the team requires me, I will play."

Notably, in his very first Ranji Trophy 2026-27 game, Mohammed Shami picked up a four-wicket-haul. Hence, fans expected the selectors to take note of his performance.

However, the selection committee yet again ignored him for reasons only known to them. Therefore, Shami now has to keep waiting for his comeback opportunity.