Indian Pacer Mohammed Shami may make his return to international ODI cricket against New Zealand. Shami has not played internationally since last March’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final at Dubai against them on March 9 2025; reports by NDTV indicate he may join India’s three match ODI series beginning January 11, in Vadodara.

Shami Performance Monitored with Selectors

The BCCI has closely been following Mohammed Shami’s domestic performance and keeping alive his chances for international return. A BCCI source indicated this by noting: “Mohammed Shami has been mentioned frequently since returning. At present he’s out of the limelight but fitness remains key when selecting players of his caliber to ODI series against New Zealand or even World Cup.”

Shami holds extensive white-ball credentials.

Shami ranks highest in India when it comes to wicket-taking for limited overs competitions organized by ICC, being named most prolific wicket-taker during ODI World Cup 2023 and his last T20I played against England (2 February 2025). Although Shami has yet to feature as part of India national squad since his appearance at 2023’s World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval and his last T20I on February 2, his form keeps him relevant as an option for selection as national player.

Solid Domestic Performances

Shami has had impressive performances at domestic tournaments over recent weeks. At the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 he took six wickets across three games while at Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 his performance resulted in 16 wickets over 7 Elite Group C matches for Bengal – all performances that increase the likelihood of his inclusion back onto India’s one-day international squad; especially given Jasprit Bumrah is likely to rest up ahead of an important series against Sri Lanka next month.

Filling Bumrah’s Vacuum

With Bumrah likely out, Shami could lead India’s pace attack as Bumrah remains out, using his expertise and knack for taking wickets to lead India to victory against South Africa in November 30-6 ODI series played between India and South Africa between November 30 until December 6 Arshdeep Singh Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna were India’s primary pacers; though Krishna did manage four wickets during Vizag final match they proved somewhat inconsistent overall thus emphasizing why more experienced bowlers like Shami are so crucially needed as part of India team!

Fans Keen for Selection Confirmation

As part of their decision on his inclusion or otherwise in India’s squad, India are taking into consideration his fitness, form in domestic league play and international experience before making their choice. If Shami makes the cut he will provide India with an established strike bowler as well as be an example figure to young pacers; fans are eagerly awaiting official word to see him back out on the pitch again in ODIs against New Zealand.

Conclusion

Mohammed Shami could bring new energy and an edge to India’s bowling attack with his inclusion. Known for his consistent performances in limited-overs cricket, Shami will undoubtedly play an instrumental role in any forthcoming series he enters – with India hoping a select committee decision favors an unforgettable return!