Mohammed Shami linked to India ODI squad for New Zealand tour in November

Mohammed Shami has been mentioned in unverified reports as a possible selection for India’s three-match ODI series in New Zealand, scheduled from November 4 to 15, 2026. Any recall remains unconfirmed as India prepare for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027.

India recently completed a three-match ODI series against the West Indies, winning the contest 2-1, but concerns arose after the hosts chased down 352 runs in the third game. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh were unavailable for that series, which allowed other pacers to feature. The BCCI has already announced India’s T20I squad for the New Zealand tour; the ODI squad is expected to be named shortly.

Mohammed Shami last played an ODI for India in the Champions Trophy final in March 2025 and has not been part of the team’s ODI plans since then. He is described in the reports as one of India’s most experienced fast bowlers and has appeared in several major ICC tournaments, with experience in high-pressure matches.

India have been giving chances to younger pace options recently, with Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar receiving opportunities in the setup. Arshdeep Singh remains another option for the selectors, while Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are noted as important choices when available.

A recall for Shami would add an experienced option to India’s pace department and offer selectors a chance to evaluate his readiness ahead of the World Cup. Former India batter Hanuma Vihari has backed the return of Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar and said India should have experienced pacers ready as backup options ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

For now, Shami’s selection is not confirmed. The upcoming ODI squad announcement will make it clear whether Mohammed Shami is back in India’s plans for the New Zealand series.