Former India opener Aakash Chopra says he has personally spoken to the selectors and that all five members agree on Mohammed Shami’s likely return for India’s 2026 trip of New Zealand. The tour includes five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Tests.

Mohammad Shami was not named to India’s January 3, 2026 ODI team for the New Zealand series. His ankle ailment kept him out of the Test squad. For the same tour, Shami was in India’s T20I team. On March 9, 2025, he made his last international appearance in the Champions Trophy 2025 final.

After Bhuvneshwar Kumar was returned to India’s T20I squad for the five-match series against New Zealand and Ajit Agarkar was removed as selectors chairman, Shami’s selection became a hot topic. Aakash Chopra directly addressed rumours.

Aakash Chopra believes Shami’s exclusion was collective. Why?

Aakash Chopra main point is that the selection committee works together and that no one, including the chairman, may pick or exclude people. He said blaming Shami’s absence on Agarkar will simplify the committee’s work. Chopra added that Shami’s selection in the ODI squad is under consideration, but he stressed that Agarkar’s departure would not affect it.

Aakash Chopra also mentioned a Lucknow meeting with RP Singh, but he didn’t reveal any details.

What does Shami’s ODI record indicate about his selection?

One of India’s best ODI speed bowlers is Mohammad Shami. He has taken 206 wickets at 5.58 in 108 ODIs, demonstrating his consistency and control.

Also Read : Mark Chapman and Foulkes Sidelined for New Zealand’s T20I Series Against India

In the 2027 World Cup cycle, the BCCI told Shami, “This is your last opportunity,” regarding his near future. This supports the idea that Shami might use the New Zealand series to push for ODI selection.

Shami’s fitness and availability as of October 2026 are unknown, and this report has no formal injury status statement.

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