Dinesh Karthik believes Mohammed Shami’s chances of returning to India’s ODI setup have diminished significantly ahead of the 2027 World Cup. While Shami continues to impress with his domestic performances, Karthik feels India have already moved forward with other fast-bowling options.
Shami last represented India during the 2025 Champions Trophy after making his comeback from a lengthy injury layoff. Since then, the selectors have preferred younger options, including Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar, as India continue to build their bowling attack for the next ODI World Cup.
Calls for Shami’s return have increased whenever India have struggled with the ball. The debate resurfaced after India failed to defend 351 against the West Indies in the ODI series at home. Despite Shami putting together strong performances in domestic cricket, he has remained outside the national team’s plans.
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Dinesh Karthik, however, does not see a reason for India to reverse their decision. “I feel there are other pacers. India have moved beyond him. There’s no point in going back,” Karthik said during a discussion with Cricbuzz, while acknowledging Shami’s impressive bowling form.
In Shami’s absence, Harshit Rana has established himself as a strong option alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. India will be hoping Rana can maintain his fitness and continue developing into a reliable international bowler.
Arshdeep Singh is another contender for a place in India’s ODI pace attack and could challenge Siraj for a regular spot. Meanwhile, Gurnoor Brar and Prasidh Krishna provide different bowling options, particularly the ability to hit the deck hard, which could prove valuable in South African conditions during the 2027 World Cup.
Karthik also discussed the possible impact of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retiring from ODI cricket after the 2027 World Cup. Both veterans have indicated that the tournament remains an important target. The former India cricketer believes their eventual absence could affect the popularity and appeal of ODI cricket.
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“They’re two of the biggest names, and India is at the epicentre of world cricket. Losing two of the best cricketers will have an effect,” Dinesh Karthik said. With the 2027 World Cup approaching, India’s selectors face important decisions over their pace combination and the transition from their experienced stars.
