Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami is optimistic about making his return to the Indian side after being overlooked for a long time. Shami was recently left out of India's upcoming tour of New Zealand, despite making a good impression in the domestic cricket. However, Shami has expressed confidence in his abilities, maintaining that he is physically fit, bowling well and still performing at the level needed to make the cut in the Indian side. When asked about being left out of India’s squad for the New Zealand series, Shami asserted that he is focused on playing as many matches as possible. 

"It was not about disappointment. I played all the matches last season as well. My motive is that I play as much as I can in the upcoming tournaments. I want to be prepared for the future matches and series. Nobody knows when and where anybody would be needed to play. For me, it is good even for IPL preparation if I keep playing domestic & white-ball cricket,” Shami said while speaking to reporters. 

Shami last represented India in March 2025 during the Champions Trophy, capping off the tournament as one of the team's leading wicket-takers, claiming nine wickets to share the top spot with Varun Chakaravarthy. Asked about his planning for the upcoming ODI World Cup, Shami noted that he is not thinking too far ahead. 

"I don't think that far ahead. You never know what will happen in life. You don't know who will score runs or take wickets. There is no logic behind thinking that far ahead. Whatever matches you are getting to play, just keep playing and keep improving. I always say that your focus should be on your skill and fitness. I don't want to take any load by thinking too far ahead. I am getting to play domestic cricket right now. There is so much time (for the ODI World Cup).

“I've also completely kept myself away from social media, as I don't like spending too much time browsing it. Rather, I'm focusing on being on the ground, putting in the hours during practice sessions. That's where I want to invest my time and energy."