JuicyTalk
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s stunning return to India’s T20I squad has naturally raised questions about the future of several experienced fast bowlers, including Mohammed Shami. However, Bhuvneshwar’s recall should not be interpreted as a direct setback to Shami’s Test or ODI ambitions.
The 36-year-old Bhuvneshwar has been included in India’s 16-member squad for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, marking his return to international cricket after nearly four years. His last T20I appearance came against New Zealand in November 2022.
Importantly, the selectors have not yet announced India’s squads for the ODI and Test legs of the New Zealand tour. That leaves the door open for Shami, particularly in the longer formats.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s recall is primarily about T20 cricket
Bhuvneshwar’s selection has been driven largely by his outstanding recent performances in the IPL. Playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), he claimed 45 wickets across the 2025 and 2026 seasons, including 28 wickets in IPL 2026.
His ability to swing the new ball, control the powerplay and use his experience in pressure situations has once again made him an attractive T20 option. India are also preparing for the upcoming T20I assignments, making Bhuvneshwar’s skill set particularly relevant.
The conditions in New Zealand could further enhance his value, given the movement that can be available to seamers. His ability to generate swing is one of the reasons his experience could prove useful on the tour.
That, however, does not automatically translate into a Test or ODI selection.
Why Mohammed Shami still has a chance for India comeback?
For Shami, the bigger question is whether the selectors believe he remains one of India’s best options for the 50-over and Test formats.
Shami has been one of India’s premier fast bowlers across formats for years, and his experience remains an important asset. Unlike Bhuvneshwar, whose recent international comeback is specifically in the T20I setup, Shami’s credentials have traditionally been strongest in ODI and Test cricket.
India are scheduled to play five ODIs and two Tests against New Zealand after the T20I series. With those squads still to be announced, there is no indication that Bhuvneshwar’s inclusion has closed the door on Shami.
The ODI picture is more complicated because India are already looking toward the 2027 World Cup.
Bhuvneshwar has made it clear that he remains interested in playing another World Cup and believes he is physically ready for the challenge. His recent IPL performances have strengthened his case, but questions remain about whether his body can handle the workload of regular 50-over cricket.
This is where Shami’s experience could become crucial.
India will need bowlers who can operate effectively with the new ball, strike in the middle overs and handle long spells. If Shami can demonstrate that he is fit and bowling at his best, his ODI experience gives him a strong argument for selection.
At the same time, Bhuvneshwar’s return suggests the selectors are willing to reconsider experienced players if their current performances justify it. His T20I recall should have even less impact on Shami’s Test prospects.
Bhuvneshwar has not played Test cricket for India since 2018, while his recent comeback has been built around limited-overs performances. The upcoming New Zealand Tests are therefore likely to be assessed independently, with workload, fitness, domestic preparation and current red-ball form all potentially influencing selection.
India have also been looking at younger fast-bowling options. Akash Deep, for instance, was reported to be in line for a Test recall after returning from a lengthy injury layoff and performing in domestic cricket.
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