Raina tips Mohammed Shami for India return after Bhuvneshwar recall
Raina believes Shami could follow Bhuvneshwar back into India’s plans
Former India batter Suresh Raina has backed Mohammed Shami to push for a return to the national team, saying the fast bowler’s domestic performances have kept him in contention. Raina made the comments at the jersey launch of the Indian Soft Ball Cricket League, after Bhuvneshwar Kumar received an India recall at the age of 36.
“Making it to the Indian team at the age of 36 shows character. He has been a very disciplined bowler and a very process-driven guy who has worked really hard on his body,” Raina said of Bhuvneshwar.
He was similarly optimistic about Shami, who has continued playing domestic cricket. “Absolutely, I think he (Mohammed Shami) has done well and played good domestic cricket too. Now it is Bhuvi’s turn, aur Shami bhi aa rahe hai piche piche, tension mat lijiye (Shami is also right behind him, so don’t worry),” Raina said.
Domestic cricket offers a route back
Shami last played for India at the 2025 Champions Trophy. His latest Test appearance was the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia. He is set to represent Bengal in their opening fixture of the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season.
His recent Indian Premier League returns have been less encouraging: Shami took 18 wickets in 22 matches across the 2025 and 2026 IPL seasons, conceding at an economy rate of 10 runs per over.
Bhuvneshwar’s IPL form underlines his value
Bhuvneshwar’s recall followed strong performances for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. In IPL 2026, he claimed 28 wickets at an economy rate of 8.07, finishing as the competition’s second-highest wicket-taker. Across the 2025 and 2026 IPL seasons, he took 25 wickets in the PowerPlay overs and 18 at the death.
His swing, control and variations have helped him remain effective despite not relying on outright pace. Raina’s comments suggest Shami may hope to make a similar case through domestic cricket, but they do not amount to confirmation of a national-team return.