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Mohammed Shami unfazed by Bhuvneshwar's T20I recall, says selection doesn't concern him

Bengal fast bowler Mohammed Shami has made it clear that Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recall to India's T20I setup does not affect him, stating that squad decisions outside his control are not his concern. The BCCI senior selection committee revealed the roster for India's upcoming T20I tour of New Zealand on October 6, 2026, handing Bhuvneshwar an international return after a long absence.

The upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand will mark the 36-year-old seamer's first appearance in Indian colours since November 2022, when he also faced New Zealand.

Shami, who last played a T20I for India on February 2, 2025, against England and made his most recent ODI appearance on March 9, 2025, against New Zealand, reiterated his commitment to his domestic commitments. When questioned about the selection, Shami said, "Bhuvneshwar Kumar got the chance to play for India, and that's good for him.

But his selection doesn't concern me. Wherever I get the chance to play, I will give my best.

Right now, my focus is firmly on this Ranji match."

The veteran seamer also reflected on his sustained domestic contributions, noting that selection omissions have become a familiar pattern. "The same thing has been happening with me for the last two or three years," Shami said.

"I have been performing and have proved my fitness for Bengal. If I don't get the chance to play for India again, it's not my loss."

Across the last two Indian Premier League seasons representing Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the 36-year-old Bhuvneshwar Kumar took 48 wickets in 30 matches. During the tournament, he secured 28 wickets to conclude second on the wicket-taking leaderboard.

Indian team batting coach Sitanshu Kotak spoke about the selection before India's second T20I match against the West Indies in Ranchi. Kotak explained the strategic necessity of experienced bowling personnel within the group.

"Obviously, it's the selectors' (decision), but still I can give you an answer (based on) what I think," Kotak said. "Because in England, I also personally felt with Bumrah not being around and with all the new bowlers playing, we all know that you can't beat experience.

They also are good and performing well and getting selected, but at some stage you also need some experience. So, I am just thinking that might be one reason.

Another thing is that Bhuvaneshwar has been doing really well in the IPL for the last two seasons."

Shami's immediate attention turns to the Ranji Trophy, which begins on October 11, 2026. The Abhimanyu Easwaran-led Bengal squad opens its Ranji Trophy 2026-27 season against Delhi at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani starting on Sunday, October 11.

This report also draws on coverage from CricketAddictor, Hindustan Times.

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