Mohammed Shami may be 36, but his hunger to return to India colours remains intact. East Zone captain Ishan Kishan, who has worked closely with the veteran pacer during their Duleep Trophy 2026 campaign, believes Shami still has the motivation required to make an international comeback.

Shami played a key role in East Zone’s semi-final win over Central Zone in Bengaluru, taking five wickets to help his side reach the final. His efforts have impressed Kishan, who feels the pacer’s age should not come in the way of his India ambitions.

Ishan Kishan backs Mohammed Shami for India comeback

Kishan described Shami as a legend of the game and highlighted the effort he continues to put into his cricket. He also believes the pacer’s current approach shows that he remains determined to earn another opportunity with India. The East Zone captain also dismissed concerns over Shami’s age, insisting that hard work and hunger matter more. Kishan, who has himself spent time away from the Indian team, said he can recognise the motivation Shami currently possesses.

“I think he is just one of the best. He has been a legend of this game. He has been picking wickets, giving all his energy and he has done so well for the Indian cricket team also. I feel age is just a number. If he is working hard it doesn’t matter. I see that hunger in Shami bhai because who better than me to judge about hunger right now,” Kishan said at the pre-match press conference.

Also READ: India to face Japan in one-off T20I ahead of Asian Games 2026

Shami’s determination impresses East Zone captain

Kishan revealed that Shami’s desire to make an impact has been evident during East Zone’s campaign. The veteran pacer even approached his captain for extra overs during the semi-final, showing that he wanted to take responsibility and help the team win. He further explained that Shami’s motivation is not simply about performing well in domestic cricket, but about earning his way back into the Indian squad. The pacer last represented India in the Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand in Dubai.

“Shami bhai came in, asking me for those extra overs to get the wickets. This is something which always gives confidence to skippers. When you have bowlers who are willing to get you wickets, it’s always good to have him in the team. He has that hunger and that motivation right now like he wants to do that comeback. He wants to be part of the Indian squad again and you can see it in him,” Kishan said.

Also READ: Wasim Jaffer questions Rinku Singh’s exclusion from India’s squad for Afghanistan T20Is