Bharat Arun Backs Mohammed Shami for India Comeback After 100th First-Class Match

Former India bowling coach Bharat Arun has publicly backed Mohammed Shami for a potential India recall, speaking as the pacer reached his 100th first-class appearance in the Duleep Trophy final between East Zone and South Zone in Chennai.

"It is actually befitting for Shami. 100 first-class matches with what he loves most, the red ball," Arun said. "He loves bowling. It doesn't matter whether it is in the nets or in the middle of a game. You give him the red ball, or any ball for that matter, he would mark his run-up and start bowling."

Shami has continued to produce strong numbers on the domestic circuit despite his absence from the national side, taking 37 wickets in seven matches for Bengal in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy at an average of 16.72, along with 15 wickets in seven Vijay Hazare Trophy games. He also picked up five wickets across the Duleep Trophy semi-final against Central Zone, showing he can still bowl long, effective spells.

The 36-year-old has not played for India since the 2025 Champions Trophy final, where he finished as the tournament's leading wicket-taker with nine scalps, having earlier taken 23 wickets in seven matches before an ankle injury and subsequent surgery ruled him out for nearly a year. His continued domestic form and Arun's endorsement will fuel speculation over a possible international return.