Mohammed Shami’s sensational return to World Cup action on Sunday has sparked a debate over his place in India’s XI, with Hardik Pandya expected to be fit for the next game against England. Shami, who was benched for the first four matches of the tournament, was brought into the playing XI against New Zealand after Pandya suffered an ankle injury. He responded with a match-winning performance, taking 5 for 54 to help India bowl out New Zealand for 273.

Former India opener Aakash Chopra has called for Shami to be retained in the XI, even if Pandya is fit. “Have been saying since Day 1 that Shami should be in playing XI. An unwanted scenario was created where Hardik Pandya got injured and Mohammed Shami had to be brought in. It was Shami’s first match of the tournament and he picked up five wickets,” Chopra told JioCinema.

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“Mohammed Shami did what he did with Australia in Mohali on a bata wicket. Shami’s Mohali and Dharamsala numbers are quite similar. His accuracy is amazing. Wrist position is good,” he added.

Mohammed Shami’s performance against New Zealand was particularly impressive in the death overs, where he helped India restrict the Kiwis to 54 runs in the last 10 overs.

“Shami’s fifer is the key reason why India, who were on the verge of getting 300 plus. Shami’s effort is praise-worthy,” Aakash Chopra said.

Shami’s supporters point to his experience and wicket-taking ability as reasons for keeping him in the XI. He has now taken two five-wicket hauls in World Cups and is one of the most dangerous bowlers in the world on his day. However, Pandya’s all-round abilities make him a valuable asset to the team. He is a genuine six-hitter, and can also bowl useful medium-pace.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to keep Shami in the XI or bring Pandya back will come down to the team management. They will need to weigh up the pros and cons of each player and decide what is best for the team. Shami’s performance against New Zealand was a timely reminder of his quality. He is one of the best bowlers in the world, and India are lucky to have him.

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However, Pandya is also a very important player for India. He is a genuine all-rounder, and his batting and bowling abilities make him a valuable asset to the team.

The team management will have a difficult decision to make when Pandya is fit again. They will need to weigh up the pros and cons of each player and decide what is best for the team. Personally, I think Shami should be kept in the XI, even if Pandya is fit. Shami is a world-class bowler, and he is in the form of his life. He also has the experience of playing in big tournaments, which will be valuable in the knockout stages of the World Cup.