Overview
- An NDTV-cited BCCI source, reported by Cricket Country and WION, says Shami is being discussed regularly and could be picked for the New Zealand series, with fitness the primary concern.
- India Today reports Shami’s camp is confident of a recall for the three ODIs starting January 11, though he has received no official communication yet.
- The ODI squad announcement is expected on January 3 or 4, positioning fitness clearance as the decisive factor in selection.
- Recent returns include eight wickets in four Vijay Hazare matches and 17 across his last six white-ball outings, plus 20 in four Ranji Trophy games this season.
- Shami has not played for India since the Champions Trophy final in March 2025, and his prolonged absence, previously linked to medical advice cited by Ajit Agarkar, has drawn scrutiny from former player Mohammad Kaif.