Mohammed Kaif urges India to pick Shami for 2027 World Cup on flat South African pitches
Mohammed Kaif recommended recalling Mohammed Shami for the 2027 ODI World Cup citing his experience on flat pitches.
Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif said India should include Mohammed Shami in their squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup because South African pitches are expected to be flat and batting-friendly. Kaif told Hindustan Times that bowling and fielding remain the areas India must address to win the title.
Shami took 24 wickets in seven matches at the 2023 World Cup after entering the playing XI following Hardik Pandya's injury. He was the tournament's highest wicket-taker despite initially being a backup option.
Kaif said Shami is an ICC event bowler who has performed in every World Cup and is currently proving his fitness by bowling 20 overs in domestic cricket. Dinesh Karthik has questioned the need to go back to Shami, noting that selectors have backed younger pacers instead.
CricHubb Take
India's selection approach appears split between those who value proven World Cup performers and those committed to building depth with younger options.