Navdeep Saini backs Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar for an India recall, citing their strong domestic cricket and IPL performances.

Indian pacer Navdeep Saini has backed veteran fast bowlers Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar for a return to the national team, saying their performances in domestic cricket and the IPL make them worthy of another opportunity. The remarks come at a time when India continues to rely heavily on its younger pace options.

Navdeep Saini backs experienced pacers

Speaking to India TV, Saini said he could not comment on the selectors’ plans but felt both experienced pacers had done enough to be considered for India again.

According to Saini, playing domestic cricket, especially the Ranji Trophy, requires significant physical effort. He highlighted Shami’s continued involvement in domestic cricket and Bhuvneshwar’s impressive IPL campaign as evidence of their ability to contribute at the highest level.

“I can’t comment on what the selectors are thinking, but as a player, I feel Mohammed Shami or Bhuvneshwar Kumar are performing really well in domestic cricket or IPL,” Saini said.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar impressed in IPL 2026

Bhuvneshwar Kumar was among the standout Indian pacers during IPL 2026. Representing Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the experienced seamer picked up 28 wickets and finished second in the tournament’s wicket-taking charts behind Gujarat Titans’ Kagiso Rabada.

His consistency with the ball has strengthened the argument for his possible return to the Indian setup. Despite his impressive campaign, the national team management has continued to invest in younger fast bowlers.

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Bhuvneshwar is also set to feature in the UP T20 League, giving him another opportunity to maintain his rhythm and match fitness.

Mohammed Shami continues to prove himself

For Mohammed Shami, the biggest question surrounding a possible India return has been his fitness. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has previously spoken about the concerns surrounding the veteran pacer’s workload and physical condition.

However, Shami has remained active in domestic cricket, including the Ranji Trophy. Saini pointed out that regularly playing red-ball cricket is demanding and said Shami’s efforts should be recognised.

The Bengal pacer remains one of India’s most experienced fast bowlers, having delivered important performances for the national side across formats.

Saini reflects on his KKR experience

While discussing the possibility of veteran pacers returning to India duty, Saini also looked back at his stint with Kolkata Knight Riders. He revealed that conversations with former West Indies all-rounder and KKR coaching staff member Dwayne Bravo helped him understand the importance of trusting his natural ability.

Saini said the key lesson he took from Bravo was to rely on his pace rather than attempting to make unnecessary changes to his bowling.

The Delhi pacer is currently playing for Outer Delhi Warriors in the Delhi Premier League. He has taken nine wickets from six matches, although his economy rate has been 11.69.

India return remains a possibility

With domestic cricket and franchise competitions providing experienced players with opportunities to prove their fitness and form, the debate over India’s pace-bowling options is likely to continue. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami have both built strong records for India, and Saini believes their current performances justify another opportunity.

For now, the final decision rests with the Indian selectors, but Navdeep Saini’s comments have once again brought the experienced duo into the conversation for a potential India comeback.