Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 5: Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik believes veteran pacer Mohammed Shami's chances of returning to the national team are fading, saying India have "moved beyond" the fast bowler.

Shami last represented India in international cricket in 2025. Injuries, fitness concerns and selection decisions have kept him out of the national side despite his continued performances in domestic cricket.

Speaking to Cricbuzz, Karthik was asked whether Shami should be considered for a comeback, particularly after India's bowlers struggled during their ODI series against the West Indies.

"No, I feel there are other pacers. India moved beyond him. There is no point in going back. So I wouldn't be looking at Shami, even though he has bowled very well," Karthik said.

India won the three-match ODI series 2-1, but their bowling performances came under scrutiny, with the batters-friendly conditions adding to the challenge for the pace attack.

India currently have established pacers such as Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, while younger options including Gurnoor Brar, Aquib Nabi and Anshul Kamboj are also being given opportunities.

Karthik, however, backed veteran batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to continue playing for India. He also suggested that the future of ODI cricket could face challenges if the two senior stars leave the format, potentially after next year's World Cup.

"Yes, because they are two of the biggest names, and India being at the epicentre of where world cricket is, if we lose two of the best cricketers, it is going to have an effect," Karthik said.