Mohammed Shami played a significant role in India’s run to the final in the 2023 World Cup; however, he has hardly played for India since picking up an ankle injury during the tournament. Shami’s fitness has been a cause of concern for the selectors; however, the pacer has maintained that he is fit to play, and also proved it by playing domestic cricket. With concerns over Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness and the World Cup 2027 approaching, the calls to give Shami a run in Team India have gained steam. Shami could be a handful in South Africa given his abilities, but he hasn’t been able to draw the selectors’ attention.

Speaking on Shami’s future, former India pacer Zaheer Khan said that the pacer needs to focus on delivering good performances, adding he shouldn’t worry about selection that he has no control over.

“He has to continue doing what’s in his hands. It’s up to him to decide how he wants to go ahead. If he’s playing, it means he is available for the 2027 ODI World Cup. That’s how I see it, but I am not sure how the team management is looking at him,” Zaheer Khan told Vimal Kumar.

“He has to just look at how he can contribute and do what’s within his control. He can’t analyse how the team management is looking at him, as it’s not in his control. And to his credit, Shami is doing what’s in his control, which is playing matches and performing,” he added.