IND vs NZ: Finally! Mohammed Shami all set to make a comeback in New Zealand ODIs, Rishabh Pant to be dropped

In what has been the latest development, as per the reports in media outlets, it is learned that Mohammed Shami is finally set to make his comeback in the IND vs NZ ODI series. The series will begin on January 11 in Vadodara.

Mohammed Shami has been out of the Indian setup since the conclusion of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite performing well, he was kept on the sidelines and didn’t feature in any of the formats for the Indian Cricket Team.

His tiff with selector Ajit Agarkar also didn’t help as despite performing in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, he was dropped on the basis of fitness. This made Shami openly lash out at the Agarkar and things got worse with him not selected. 

Now, Mohammed Shami has delivered a powerful performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. This has made selectors make no choice, but to consider him for the upcoming IND vs NZ ODI series as the focus shifts to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027.

A source close to NDTV said that Mohammed Shami is being discussed on a regular basis for the IND vs NZ ODI series. He also said that there are chances that he might be picked for the New Zealand ODIs. He said: 

"Mohammed Shami is being discussed on a regular basis. He is not out of reckoning. The only concern is about his fitness. A bowler of his calibre will get wickets. It is wrong to say he is out of the selection radar.

“He is looking good for the New Zealand One-Day series. Do not be surprised if he is picked, given his experience and ability to take wickets at will. Even the 2027 World Cup is a possibility."

Rishabh Pant all set to be dropped for the IND vs NZ ODI series 

The reports also claimed that Rishabh Pant is also set to be dropped for the IND vs NZ ODI series. This is because he hasn’t been able to make a mark in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. On the other hand, Ishan Kishan has performed brilliantly. 

This means that Rishabh Pant will be dropped for the IND vs NZ ODI series and in his place Ishan Kishan will be picked.