Ishan Kishan backs Mohammed Shami for India return

East Zone captain Ishan Kishan has expressed strong support for Mohammed Shami’s potential return to the Indian national cricket team following the veteran pacer’s performance in the Duleep Trophy 2026.

Shami played a pivotal role in East Zone’s semi-final victory over Central Zone, claiming five wickets and contributing with the bat by hitting two boundaries during the fourth-innings chase. Kishan praised Shami’s competitive spirit and hunger, stating that “age is just a number” and noting that the 36-year-old remains highly motivated to represent his country.

Despite his recent domestic success, including 37 wickets for Bengal in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy and 15 wickets in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shami’s international comeback remains uncertain. His last appearance for India was in the 2025 Champions Trophy final. Reports indicate he was not included in the shortlist of pacers for India’s upcoming Test series in New Zealand, which features players such as Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.