{
  "id": 216249,
  "title": "'Lot of workload': Ex-cricketer explains why Bhuvi, Shami's comeback is difficult",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/06/lot-of-workload-ex-cricketer-explains-why-bhuvi-shamis-comeback-is",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-06T09:30:03.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Times of India",
    "slug": "times-of-india",
    "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/when-you-dont-play-ranji-ex-india-cricketer-explains-why-bhuvneshwar-kumar-and-mohammed-shamis-comeback-is-difficult/articleshow/132994990.cms"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Former India opener Aakash Chopra has highlighted the challenges Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammad Shami face in regaining a spot in India's 50-over ODI cricket team ahead of the 2027 World Cup. The veteran seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar struggles in this regard due to his limited exposure to regular 50-over and first-class cricket. Chopra noted that sustained workload management is essential for players aiming to be part of the World Cup, a tournament that demands continuous play. While Bhuvneshwar Kumar has excelled in the IPL, his absence from first-class and List A cricket since 2024 could be a significant obstacle. Chopra emphasized that if the selectors are genuinely interested in including Bhuvneshwar, they must integrate him into the ODI setup sooner rather than later. Shami, on the other hand, has continued to play red-ball cricket, including in the Ranji and Duleep Trophy tournaments, which might give him a slight edge. However, Chopra noted that Bhuvneshwar Kumar's IPL performance was superior to Shami's, making the latter's case slightly stronger. The upcoming ODI series against New Zealand could provide clarity on India's future plans, as the selectors, captain, and coach are unlikely to pick both players.",
  "summary": "Aakash Chopra expresses concerns about Bhuvneshwar Kumar's chances for the 2027 World Cup, pointing to his limited workload. He highlights the importance of continuous preparation in 50-over formats beyond the IPL. Meanwhile, Mohammad Shami appears to be in a stronger position for selection.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}