Former India captain Kris Srikkanth expressed his astonishment at the fact that the team management continues to ignore Mohammed Shami. The veteran fast bowler, who was one of the standout performers of the 2023 ODIWC with a tally of 24 wickets, remains at large despite stellar performances on home soil since the Champions Trophy 2025.

Speaking on the Star Sports channel, Kris Srikkanth asserted that the 39-year-old experienced seamer still has a lot to offer and it will be a shame if the Indian team management overlooks him when the discussion on the pace battery for the 2027 ODI World Cup begins.

Kris Srikkanth backs Mohammad Shami, calls Bumrah India’s biggest World Cup weapon

“Prince Yadav is also a good bowler, Gurnoor Brar and Mohsin Khan, these three cannot be ignored. They can be in the World Cup squad because we have fifteen months and we should not lose the best bowler at this time. Shami was an outstanding bowler, so I am surprised that the management has written him off,” said Kris Srikkanth.

While backing the young brigade, the former opener also said that Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion in the ODI fold is critical to India’s hopes of winning the 2027 World Cup.

“Workload management of Bumrah is going to be crucial as we go into the World Cup. He is India’s uncut diamond. Bumrah being there is India’s only chance of winning the World Cup. He is the key, and if he is not there, we do not have a chance looking at the other bowlers. We will need him even more on South African tracks, where Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj can come in for the odd one,” said Kris Srikkanth.

At the same time, Kris Srikkanth has also suggested that Arshdeep Singh may not be the ideal choice for the 50-over format, as the left-arm paceman does not seem to have the skill to bowl effectively on old balls.

“Arshdeep Singh is not fit for the 50-over format. The ball does not move after two overs, and he is good only when there is movement. He is even the most feared bowler in T20 cricket in England. In the first over, he is tremendous to watch, and he bowls two wonderful overs. But if you watch the 1.1 over, the batters are hitting him to all parts of the ground. So, Arshdeep cannot be chosen to bowl. ODIs,” said Srikkanth.