Photo via The Times of India

'If Shami is neglected, door will be closed': Ex-India star warns selectors

Former India batsman Wasim Jaffer has called for Mohammed Shami’s immediate return to the national team, arguing the fast bowler’s recent domestic form justifies a spot in both the Test and ODI squads ahead of the 2027 World Cup. Shami, sidelined for over a year due to injury, has rebounded strongly in the 2025–26 season, claiming 37 wickets in seven Ranji Trophy matches to help Bengal reach the semifinals, followed by 15 and 16 wickets in seven games each of the Vijay Hazare and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophies, respectively.

His momentum carried into 2026–27, where he took seven wickets in East Zone’s Duleep Trophy victory—his first in 14 years—reinforcing his status as a reliable match-winner across formats. Jaffer, a vocal advocate for experienced pace bowlers, criticized the current selection approach, stating that neglecting Shami could permanently close the door on his international comeback.

He also questioned the team’s inconsistent use of seamers like Siraj and Hardik Pandya, instead advocating for a core trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Shami, and Siraj to anchor the ODI attack before considering a rebuild post-World Cup.

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