Veteran India fast bowler Mohammed Shami remains on the outside looking in as the national team continues its transition towards a younger pace attack. Despite delivering consistent performances for Bengal in domestic cricket, the 35-year-old has not featured in India’s recent squads and is no longer part of the BCCI’s central contract list. However, Shami has repeatedly insisted that he has no plans of retiring and remains determined to fight his way back into the Indian setup.
While awaiting another opportunity at the international level, Shami recently reflected on his career and spoke about the captains he has played under. Having shared the dressing room with legends like MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the experienced pacer was asked to reveal his favourite leader. His answer offered a fascinating insight into the contrasting leadership styles of India’s three modern-day captains.
Mohammed Shami picks his favourite Indian captain
Speaking to Times Now Navbharat, Shami admitted that each captain had a unique approach to leading the team. However, he ultimately chose Kohli as the captain he enjoyed playing under the most. The fast bowler highlighted the close personal bond he shares with Kohli and explained how the former India skipper trusted his bowlers by giving them the freedom to execute their own plans.
The veteran pacer also acknowledged the qualities of both Dhoni and Rohit. He described Dhoni as a calm leader who rarely complicated situations and only intervened when necessary. Rohit, meanwhile, was portrayed as a captain with a clear tactical vision who expected his plans to be carried out precisely.
Yet, it was Kohli’s willingness to listen, back his bowlers and encourage aggressive cricket that left the biggest impression on Shami. The duo enjoyed tremendous success together, particularly in Test cricket, where India emerged as one of the world’s most dominant teams with a fearsome fast-bowling unit.
“Overall, I enjoy more with Virat as I have a good bond and better connection with him, you can call it like a brother or a good friend. Mahi bhai (Dhoni) had a different way. He would be calm, and where he felt something was not needed, it would not be needed. With Rohit, it was different, if he wanted something at a particular time, he wanted just that. With Virat, I could convince him about my plan. He would stop and give you that freedom until you did not make any mistake,” Shami said.
Fans back Shami for a 2027 ODI World Cup return
Although Shami remains out of India’s current plans, many supporters believe his international journey is far from over. Following his impressive domestic performances and continued commitment to fitness, fans have repeatedly called for the experienced pacer to be considered for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The tournament, scheduled to be held across South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, is expected to offer conditions favourable to fast bowlers. With his ability to generate seam movement, reverse swing and relentless accuracy, several former cricketers and fans believe Shami could still play a decisive role in those environments.
While the Indian selectors are focused on preparing a younger group of pacers for the future, public opinion continues to favour Shami’s inclusion, particularly in the 50-over format where his experience could prove invaluable in major tournaments.
