Mohammed Shami 's decision to retire from Test cricket on 6 November marks the end of a memorable chapter in Indian cricket. The veteran fast bowler chose an important date to announce his retirement, which was in his 2013 west indies This is exactly 13 years after his Test debut against India. He finished his red-ball career with 229 wickets in 64 matches, making him one of India's most successful fast bowlers.
However, retirement from the longest format is not the end of Shami's international journey. 2027 ODI World Cup As the season approaches, the experienced fast bowler could still play a key role in India's plans.
Although Shami has not featured in an ODI since the start of 2025, his experience, exceptional bowling skills and prior performances in global tournaments make him a valuable option. His decision to step away from Test cricket may also give him an opportunity to focus on enhancing his white-ball cricket career. Let's look at some of the key reasons why Shami should be seriously considered for India's 2027 ODI World Cup squad.
3 reasons why Mohammed Shami should be included in India's squad for ODI World Cup 2027
1. Exceptional World Cup record makes him a proven match-winner
One of Shami's biggest strengths is his excellent record in the ICC ODI World Cup. The right-arm fast bowler has always excelled when India needed him most, especially in high-pressure knockout encounters. With 55 wickets in 18 World Cup matches, Shami has set an extraordinary record in this tournament. His average of 13.52 and strike rate of 15.8 indicate that he has the ability to take wickets regularly while maintaining pressure on the opposition batsmen.
His performance during the 2023 ODI World Cup is a perfect example of his importance to India's bowling attack. Despite being absent in the initial matches, Shami finished the competition with 24 wickets in just seven matches.
His seven-wicket haul in the semi-final against New Zealand was further proof of his ability to deliver extraordinary performances on the biggest stage. India can certainly develop young fast bowlers for the future, but it will not be easy to translate Shami's experience and composure into a World Cup campaign.
2. Test retirement could help him focus on white-ball cricket
Fitness has been a big challenge in Shami's career in the last few years. Ankle surgery and subsequent knee-related problems kept him away from international cricket for a long time. Retirement from Test cricket could provide the experienced fast bowler an opportunity to manage his workload more effectively. Instead of preparing for the physical demands of five-day matches, he can focus on the shorter formats and maintain his bowling rhythm through limited-overs competitions.
Regular participation in these competitions will give Shami the opportunity to showcase his fitness, consistency and ability to perform in pressure situations, without having to manage the demands of international Test cricket.
3. Experience may matter more than age in India's World Cup plans
Shami will turn 37 by the start of the 2027 ODI World Cup. Although age may become a consideration for selectors, it should not automatically rule them out of the competition. Modern fast bowling is not entirely dependent on physical strength or speed. Experience, variations, control and understanding of different match situations are equally important, especially in major tournaments.
Experienced fast bowlers such as Mitchell Starc have demonstrated how experienced fast bowlers can continue to make significant contributions at the highest level.
Shami has the ability to generate movement with the new ball and make effective use of reverse swing in the latter stages of the innings. These qualities may be particularly useful in the conditions expected in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.