Bhuvneshwar Kumar has made an unexpected return to the India National Cricket Team at the age of 36, but Mohammed Shami's wait for the national comeback continues despite his impressive performances in domestic cricket across the formats.

The senior fast bowler has not played for India since the ICC Champions Trophy final in March 2025. Despite doing well for Bengal across formats, Shami was once again ignored by the selectors for the ongoing multi-format series in New Zealand. Earlier, Irfan Pathan takes aim at Gautam Gambhir’s haters over Ishan Kishan-Tilak Varma controversy.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar explains how Mohammed Shami can make India come back

Bhuvneshwar Kumar returned to India's T20I setup, and he even played in the five-match T20I series opener against the Black Caps. However, the seamer had a forgettable comeback, returning wicketless, but India won the first T20I by four wickets against New Zealand in Christchurch.

Amid Shami's continued absence, Bhuvneshwar has shared his views on how players can make a strong comeback to the national team in the video shared by the BCCI on its official website ahead of the second T20I against New Zealand on Saturday, October 24, in Christchurch.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar believes that players still have enough chances to prove their skills and earn a place in the Indian team. The seasoned bowler said that players have several platforms to perform well and catch the selectors' attention to return to the national folds.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar said in the BCCI video, "If you see, there are three formats: T20s, One Day, and Five Days. And if you include the IPL in that, I think there's enough cricket to be in touch and to make a comeback. I believe there are many players who want to make a comeback. I think it's this ample opportunity to do well and come back.”

Bhuvneshwar Kumar reveals how players can boost their India comeback hopes

The RCB star also pointed out that the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has become more competitive, especially after players gain valuable experience in the IPL.

The tournament gives them another chance to improve their game, display their talent, and fight for an India comeback. Amid this, Ishan Kishan ruled out of 2nd T20I vs New Zealand GT batter named as replacement.

He further explained, “I think if you look at the level of Mushtaq Ali after the IPL, I think that has gone up. Because players play from there, they gain the experience from IPL, they improve there, and they show their skills. And those who don't come to the domestic period also get a chance to do it. So, I think, yes, there's enough opportunity.”

The end of a four-year hiatus 🙌 In this heartwarming chat, @BhuviOfficial reveals that leaving no stone unturned in preparations & the steadfast support from family made his special comeback possible 👏 - By @RajalArora Watch 🔽| #TeamIndia | #NZvIND https://t.co/UcvqUJy1Q5

— BCCI (@BCCI) October 24, 2026

Mohammed Shami's India comeback hopes remain alive

Shami's continued exclusion is linked to his fitness, particularly his ability to bowl long spells in Test cricket after suffering leg and ankle problems.

However, the experienced fast bowler has strongly rejected concerns about his fitness and remains determined to return to international cricket.

Despite the selectors overlooking him for the New Zealand series, Shami's strong domestic performances have kept his comeback hopes alive. The Bengal pacer is keen to make his mark and he will get opportunities to do so in a few domestic tournaments and IPL 2027.