Former India batter Wasim Jaffer has backed veteran pacer Mohammed Shami’s return to the Indian setup ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. His comments came after Bhuvneshwar Kumar was picked earlier this month for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, which begins on October 22. Notably, Bhuvneshwar last played for India in November 2022.

Speaking during a discussion on his YouTube channel (Wasim Jaffer Official), he said: “I think now that a new selection committee has come in, we will have to see what decision they make when picking the Test squad for the New Zealand series. The new committee has given Bhuvneshwar Kumar an opportunity, so I hope they also consider Mohammed Shami. Shami has been performing consistently. He took 37 wickets last season as well, and his IPL campaign wasn’t bad either. He has started this season very well and has performed well in the Duleep Trophy too.”

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However, Wasim Jaffer also stated that questioning Mohammed Shami’s quality when the pace bowler is fit, playing, and performing is foolish. He further argued that Shami should be included in India’s squad for the two-match away Test series against New Zealand, which starts on November 19 in Wellington.

Wasim Jaffer said: “To begin with, I think it is foolish to question a bowler like Shami, who has taken more than 200 Test wickets and has proved himself in every way. If he is fit, playing and performing, then questioning his quality is nothing short of foolish. I don’t know what else to call it. I feel the new committee will pay some attention to this, and I believe we will need Shami on a tour like New Zealand’s. He should be part of the squad. I genuinely feel that if he is not playing, it is India’s loss.”