# Zaheer Khan Backs Mohammad Shami for Team India Return, Emphasizes Overseas Experience Ahead of South Africa Tour

> Former Indian speedster Zaheer Khan has backed Mohammad Shami's comeback into the national team, stating that the veteran pacer's vast experience could prove crucial for Team India on the upcoming South Africa tour if he remains fit.

**Type:** article · **Category:** Cricket · **Published:** 2026-08-09 · **Source:** TrendKia
**Canonical:** https://trendkia.com/en/cricket/mohammad-shami-ki-bharatiya-tima-men-vapasi-para-zaheer-khan-ka-bara-bayana-south-africa-daure-ke-lie-anubhava-ko-bataya-behada-ja-15317 · **Language:** English
**Tags:** Mohammad Shami, Zaheer Khan, Ajit Agarkar, Team India, South Africa Tour, Indian Cricket

Discussions regarding veteran fast bowler Mohammad Shami's return to the Indian national cricket team have gained fresh momentum. Shami has not featured for Team India in any international format for over a year. Despite this hiatus, he has delivered impressive performances in domestic cricket and demonstrated his match fitness. However, team management continues to overlook him as they focus on building a pool of younger fast bowlers for upcoming major tournaments.

## Zaheer Khan Supports Shami's Comeback
Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan has come out in strong support of Shami's re-entry into the national setup. Speaking in an interview with senior sports journalist Vimal Kumar, Zaheer shared his thoughts on Shami's current standing and fitness. He emphasized that if Shami is physically fit and available, his vast international experience would be invaluable for Team India, particularly on challenging overseas assignments like the tour of South Africa.

During the interaction, Zaheer Khan remarked, "When a player performs well, he should definitely be included in Team India's planning." He pointed out that Shami currently does not appear to be part of the management's active roadmap. Zaheer added that a high-caliber bowler like Shami ought to be featuring in the World Cup and remain an integral element of the squad's long-term strategy.

## The Fitness Controversy and Clash with Selectors
The selection committee, headed by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, had previously cited fitness concerns as the primary reason for Shami's prolonged absence from the national squad. This stance led to a public exchange of statements between the selectors and the fast bowler. Shami firmly refuted questions surrounding his physical condition, pointing to his recent workloads in domestic tournaments as proof of his readiness.

Addressing the fitness doubts directly, Mohammad Shami stated, "If I can bowl all day in Ranji Trophy, I can certainly bowl 10 overs in one-dayers." He argued that delivering extended spells in red-ball domestic matches clearly demonstrated his endurance. While Shami maintains that he is fully fit and ready for international action, the selectors have so far kept him outside their tactical plans.

## Team Management's Strategy and Future Outlook
The Indian team management, comprising the head coach, captain, and selection panel, is currently shaping the roster for future global events. While acknowledging that the ultimate decision lies with the team leadership, Zaheer Khan reiterated that seasoned bowlers bring crucial stability in conditions like South Africa. It remains to be seen whether the selection committee will reassess Shami's domestic form and heed the advice of veteran cricketers before finalizing future squads.

## What this means for you
**For Cricket Fans:** A potential return for an experienced pacer like Mohammad Shami adds depth and tactical balance to India's bowling attack on bouncy South African pitches.

**For Team Selection Dynamics:** Highlight's the ongoing debate between grooming young fast bowlers and retaining proven veteran match-winners for major ICC tournaments.

## Questions & Answers

### 1. How long has Mohammad Shami been away from Team India?
Mohammad Shami has not played for Team India in any international format for over a year.

### 2. What did Zaheer Khan say about Mohammad Shami's comeback?
Zaheer Khan stated that if Shami is fit and available, his experience would be valuable for the South Africa tour and he should be included in India's World Cup plans.

### 3. How did Mohammad Shami respond to questions about his fitness?
Shami remarked that if he can bowl all day in the Ranji Trophy, bowling 10 overs in a one-day match is not an issue, proving his physical readiness.

### 4. What reason did selectors give for not selecting Shami?
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar and the selection panel cited fitness concerns as the primary reason for keeping Shami out of the national squad.

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