Zaheer Khan supports Mohammed Shami's return to Indian cricket team

Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan has voiced support for Mohammed Shami's return to the Indian national team, suggesting that if Shami is fit and available, his experience would be a significant asset, particularly for upcoming tours in South Africa.

Shami has not played for the national team in any format for a year, despite demonstrating fitness and strong performances in domestic cricket. While team management has focused on developing a pool of younger fast bowlers, experts like Khan argue that Shami should be included in team planning. Khan advised Shami to focus solely on his individual performance rather than worrying about selection, noting that continued play keeps him in contention for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

There has been ongoing debate regarding Shami's fitness, with selectors previously citing it as a concern. However, Shami has countered these claims by highlighting his ability to bowl long spells in domestic cricket like the Ranji Trophy. With Jasprit Bumrah's workload a factor for future series, Shami's potential inclusion in upcoming series against West Indies or New Zealand is being viewed as a key opportunity for assessment.