Raina says Shami is following Bhuvneshwar back into India squad
Suresh Raina indicated that Mohammed Shami is next in line for an India recall after strong domestic showings.
Former India batter Suresh Raina said Mohammed Shami is close to returning to the national team following Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recall for the T20I series against New Zealand. Raina praised Bhuvneshwar's discipline and fitness work that earned him a comeback at 36. Bhuvneshwar last played for India in 2022 and has taken 48 wickets in 30 IPL matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru across the last two seasons. Shami has been performing in domestic cricket for Bengal but has not featured for India since the 2025 Champions Trophy. Raina said Shami has done well in domestic cricket and will follow Bhuvneshwar's path back into the side. Shami claimed four wickets on the opening day of Bengal's Ranji Trophy match against Delhi.
CricHubb Take
Raina's comments suggest the selection panel may be shifting from fitness-based exclusions toward rewarding consistent domestic performers, a change that could affect how other sidelined players approach their red-ball commitments.