Former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan has thrown his weight behind Mohammed Shami's chances of returning to the Indian team, saying the veteran pacer should
be considered for the 2027 ODI World Cup if he continues to perform and remains fit.
Shami has not played for India since the 2025 Champions Trophy, but his domestic performances have kept the door open for a comeback. His childhood coach Mohammed Badruddin also recently insisted that the fast bowler still has plenty of cricket left in him.
Zaheer: Mohammed Shami should be in India's World Cup plans
Speaking about Shami's future, Zaheer said the veteran's performances make a strong case for his inclusion.
"When someone performs this well, he should definitely be in Team India's scheme of things. He should play the World Cup and be part of the team. "
Zaheer, however, acknowledged that the final decision will rest with the captain, head coach and selectors.
"I don't know how the team management is thinking about it. That's something the head coach, selectors, and captain will decide. "
The former India pacer added that if Shami is fit and available, India should take advantage of his experience, particularly given the conditions expected at the 2027 World Cup in South Africa.
"In my opinion, if Mohammed Shami is fit and available, India should take an experienced bowler like him to South Africa. "
Mohammed Shami domestic numbers keep his case alive
Shami has continued to make his case away from international cricket. He claimed 37 wickets in seven Ranji Trophy matches last season and followed that with 15 wickets in seven Vijay Hazare Trophy games.
His childhood coach Badruddin has also suggested that Shami remains motivated to return to the national setup.
"He still has cricket left. He is ready, and if the country needs him, he will be ready to serve. "
Badruddin also pointed to the importance of experience in South African conditions, arguing that Shami's familiarity with the environment could prove valuable.
South Africa experience could work in Shami's favour
India's pace resources have been hit by injuries in recent months, while several younger options are still establishing themselves at international level.
Badruddin believes that could make Shami's experience particularly valuable in South Africa.
"It is not easy to bowl in South Africa. You need experience there. "
Shami's record in ICC tournaments is another factor in his favour. He was India's leading wicket-taker at the 2023 ODI World Cup, finishing the tournament with 24 wickets despite initially being left out of the playing XI.
The decision is no longer entirely in Shami's hands
Zaheer's broader message was that Shami can only control his own performances.
"He has to just look at how he can contribute and do what's within his control. "
For now, that means continuing to play and prove his fitness. Whether that is enough to convince India's selectors remains uncertain, but with the 2027 World Cup less than a year away, Shami's name is firmly back in the conversation.
