Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s surprise return to India’s T20I squad could have opened another door, this time for veteran pacer Mohammed Shami.
Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin believes Shami could still get another opportunity with the national team after the selectors brought Bhuvneshwar Kumar back into the setup following a four-year gap.
India recently announced their squad for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return becoming the biggest talking point. The selection also came after Ajit Agarkar completed his tenure as chairman of selectors.
According to Ashwin, the change in the selection committee could potentially bring a different approach towards experienced players. He suggested that Ajit Agarkar may have focused more on youngsters and newcomers, while the current setup appears more open to experience.
Ashwin also pointed out that India’s bowling attack could look vulnerable without Jasprit Bumrah, making experience an important factor. He said Bhuvneshwar’s selection shows that the door may not necessarily be closed for Shami either. Ashwin was particularly pleased to see Bhuvneshwar Kumar earn his place back in the squad and described his selection as an important development.
Shami last represented India in the Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand in March last year. Since then, he has not played for the national team in any format.
The veteran pacer has also been involved in a selection debate with Ajit Agarkar. Shami and Agarkar had exchanged criticism over his non-selection, while Agarkar had indicated that Shami was not being considered despite his performances in domestic cricket.
Meanwhile, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has made his return to India’s T20I setup after a four-year hiatus, earning a place in the squad for the New Zealand tour.
Ashwin believes Bhuvneshwar’s performances in New Zealand could have a major impact on what happens next. If the veteran pacer performs well on the tour, Ashwin feels there could quickly be calls for him to be considered for the ODI team as well.
With selectors expected to closely monitor Bhuvneshwar’s performances in New Zealand, his comeback could potentially influence the chances of other experienced Indian pacers, including Mohammed Shami.
Will selectors look forward to select Mohammed Shami also after Bhuvneshwar Kumar? What do you think?
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