India are gearing up to take on South Africa in a two-Test series that will begin in November with games to be played at Eden Gardens in Kolkata and Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. As the team gears up for the challenge, senior fast bowler Mohammed Shami has once again made headlines with his brilliant form in domestic cricket. His recent performances in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season have put him back in contention for a spot in India’s Test squad. 4 Reasons Why India Must Recall Mohammed Shami vs SA Shami’s Recent Form Strengthens His Comeback Chances Mohammed Shami played the last international cricket for India in March 2025 in the ICC Champions Trophy against New Zealand. However, his last Test match was in the 2023 World Test Championship (WTC) Final vs. Australia. Thereafter, he has remained out of the red-ball setup because of injuries and workload management. Now, the right-arm pacer has made a come-back to domestic cricket in style. Playing for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, Shami has been in top rhythm, taking 15 wickets from only two games at a stunning average of 10.46. His spells against Uttarakhand (3/3 and 4/38) and Gujarat (3/44 and 5/38) proved that he has not lost any of his speed or technique. This type of form not only enhances his fitness but also reinforces his claim for a Test recall for the series against South Africa. Also Read | Rohit Sharma Creates History as Oldest No.1 ODI Batter in ICC Rankings Rotation and Workload Management for Senior Pacers India's best fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj have bared the bulk of the workload across all formats. With consecutive international series and the forthcoming World Test Championship cycle, the team administration may consider rotating its fast bowlers to ensure their fitness. In such a case, Shami is the perfect second choice. His experience and prowess to scalp the wickets both the new and old ball, and home conditions proven credentials would make him a solid pick. Adding Shami to the team would enable India to give one of their lead pacers a break without compromising the team bowling strength. Shami’s presence will also help guide young bowlers in the squad, bringing balance and depth to India’s fast-bowling attack. Excellent Record in Home Conditions One of the main reasons for considering Shami’s return is his brilliant record in home Tests. He has taken 76 wickets in 21 home Tests at an average of 22.11, with a strike rate of 42.62. Eden Gardens, where he played in the first Test against South Africa, has been among his favorite venues. He has claimed 23 wickets from just four Tests there at an average of 19.39 and with a strike rate of 31.52. With the upcoming series being played in Indian conditions, Shami’s experience and familiarity with the pitches could be a big advantage for India. His ability to move the ball both ways and generate reverse swing in longer spells make him a serious threat for visiting teams. Also Read | Md Shami refuses to verbal duels with Gambhir-Agarkar duo after fifer in Ranji Trophy A Proven Option Among Inconsistent New Faces India have tried a number of new quick bowlers in recent times, namely Akash Deep, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna. They have, however, failed to contribute consistently at the Test level. Akash Deep has picked up 28 wickets in 10 Tests at 35.78, while Prasidh Krishna has 22 wickets from six Tests at a rate of 34.46. On the other hand, Shami provides experience, consistency, and match-winning potential. To have a bowler of his talent in the team for a big series such as the one against South Africa provides reliability and balance. Conclusion Mohammed Shami’s recent form in domestic cricket has once again reminded everyone of his class and value in Test cricket. His experience, control, and wicket-taking ability make him a strong candidate for a comeback. With the South Africa series approaching, the selectors have a golden opportunity to bring him back into the fold and strengthen India’s bowling attack. If selected, Shami can play a vital role in India's home campaign and help India to build a stronger position in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle.