Mohammed Shami Makes India Comeback Hopes Clear, Says ‘I Am Still at My Peak’

Mohammed Shami has reiterated his desire to return to the Indian cricket team after being left out of the squads for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, insisting that he remains fit and is bowling with good rhythm.

Speaking after Bengal's Ranji Trophy match against Services, the fast bowler said he had not given up hope of representing India again and would continue to focus on his performances in domestic cricket.

"Why will I leave hope? The hope should always be there," Shami said to journalists after the victory.

"In any profession, you shouldn't leave hope. You should always have a goal. If we are playing in the Ranji Trophy, it is to win the title for the state right? Goals should always be there. I don't deny that I have that goal," he added.

Shami last played for India during the Champions Trophy in March 2025, where he finished with nine wickets, making him India's joint-highest wicket-taker alongside Varun Chakaravarthy. He has since featured in domestic cricket across formats and the Indian Premier League but has not received another international call-up.

Expectations of a possible return increased after Bhuvneshwar Kumar was selected for India's T20I squad for the New Zealand tour. However, Shami was not included in the Test and ODI squads announced last Friday.

Asked whether the latest omission had disappointed him, Shami said his priority was to play as many matches as possible.

"It was not about disappointment. I played all the matches last season as well. My motive is that I play as much as I can in the upcoming tournaments," he said. "Nobody knows when anybody would be needed. For me, it is good even for IPL preparation if I keep playing domestic cricket. As long as I play a lot of matches, my rhythm will be good. If I am with the team, the atmosphere will be good. These are the things that I try to do."

Shami began the domestic season in the Duleep Trophy, playing all three matches and taking seven wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the semi-final. He then claimed five wickets against Delhi in Bengal's opening Ranji Trophy fixture.

The pacer did not play in Bengal's second Ranji Trophy match against Services. However, he clarified that the decision was based on the spin-friendly conditions rather than any fitness concerns.

"I am still at my peak. You all can see it for yourselves, I trained today and yesterday as well," Shami said.

Shami also said he had not been in contact with the selectors or the selection committee under its new chair, adding that he was happy to see Bhuvneshwar return to the national setup. Asked about his chances of playing in the 2027 ODI World Cup, Shami reiterated that he was not looking that far ahead.