Irfan Pathan: Doors Still Open for Mohammed Shami’s India Comeback.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes Mohammed Shami still has a chance to return to the Indian team, despite being left out of the squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand starting January 11.
Shami last represented India during their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign but has remained out of the side since. Pathan, speaking on his YouTube channel, said Shami’s track record makes him a player the selectors cannot ignore.
“The biggest talking point is Mohammed Shami. He’s not someone who came yesterday and left after a few matches. He has taken 450–500 international wickets, which is huge. Fitness questions arise with everyone, but as long as you play cricket, you have to keep proving yourself,” Pathan said.
Pathan suggested that Shami can make a strong case for his return by performing in the upcoming IPL 2026 season.
“Shami has already bowled 200 overs, so fitness is proven. The selection committee decides what more is needed. If I were him, I’d go and play the IPL, take the new ball, and perform at a level no one can ignore. The world watches the IPL, and strong performances there can help him reclaim his place,” Pathan added.
Since being dropped, Shami has been active in domestic cricket, bowling over 200 overs across the Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and Vijay Hazare Trophy, picking up 47 wickets.
In the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shami is Bengal’s leading wicket-taker with 15 wickets from seven matches, averaging 14.93 with an economy of 8.90. After the VHT, he will complete the Ranji Trophy season before turning attention to the IPL 2026, where he will play for Lucknow Super Giants after being bought for Rs 10 crore.
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