Veteran India fast bowler Mohammed Shami continues to push for an international comeback, with his childhood coach Mohammed Badruddin expressing complete confidence that the experienced pacer is ready to serve the national team whenever the opportunity arises. Shami last represented India in March 2025 and has since focused on domestic cricket, where he has consistently impressed across formats.
Despite being 35, the Bengal speedster has remained committed to improving his fitness and refining his game, keeping alive hopes of returning to the Indian side. Speaking to India Today, Badruddin revealed that Shami is highly motivated for the upcoming season and believes the veteran still has plenty to offer Indian cricket.
“Shami’s mood is positive. He is quite motivated for the next season. He still has cricket left. He is ready, and if the country needs him, he will be ready to serve,” Mohammed Badruddin said.
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Having mentored Shami since his early days, Badruddin believes the pacer’s hunger to represent India remains as strong as ever. He added that Shami has never lost sight of his goal of wearing the Indian jersey again and continues to prepare with the same dedication that made him one of the country’s premier fast bowlers.
Shami’s domestic record backs those claims. During the latest Ranji Trophy season, the right-arm seamer picked up 37 wickets in just seven matches, proving he remains a potent force in red-ball cricket. He also excelled in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, claiming 15 wickets in seven matches to underline his effectiveness in the 50-over format.
Earlier this year, chief selector Ajit Agarkar suggested that Shami’s immediate return to international cricket could come through the T20 format, indicating that the veteran was closer to being ready for the shortest format than Test cricket.
Badruddin also revealed that Shami has worked hard on his fitness, shedding around five kilograms since the previous domestic season. The weight loss reflects the pacer’s determination to prolong his career and stay in contention for national selection.
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Several former cricketers have backed Shami’s inclusion in India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, particularly because of his outstanding record in South Africa. The veteran has taken nine wickets in just three ODIs in the country at an impressive average of 20.55. Across all formats in South Africa, he has claimed 44 wickets in 11 matches, further strengthening the case for his return as India begin planning for the next global tournament.
