3 forgotten Indian bowlers who can make an international comeback after Ranji season

The Ranji Trophy 2026-27 season got under way on October 11, featuring 38 teams and 138 matches across two phases. The BCCI’s 10-point diktat has made it mandatory for international players to be available for domestic matches this season, raising the stakes considerably.

With India scheduled to host Australia for five Tests early in 2027, selectors will be watching the Ranji Trophy closely. Several experienced bowlers who have been out of the international picture for some time now have a genuine opportunity to force their way back into contention.

Here are 3 forgotten Indian bowlers who could make a comeback after Ranji Trophy 2026-27:

3. Khaleel Ahmed

Khaleel Ahmed is a left-arm seamer who was a regular feature in India’s white-ball squads in the late 2010s and early 2020s but has since fallen out of the reckoning. His ability to swing the ball and trouble right-handed batters with the angle of his delivery made him a useful option for the national side.

A strong showing in the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy, where he can demonstrate sustained red-ball form and fitness, could put him back on the selectors’ radar. With India looking to build bowling depth ahead of a busy home season, a left-arm seam option who can move the ball in helpful conditions would be a valuable addition to any squad.

2. Rahul Chahar

Rahul Chahar is a leg-spin bowler who represented India in T20 Internationals and showed promise with his ability to take wickets in the middle overs. He has not been a regular part of India’s plans for some time and will need a strong domestic season to remind selectors of his capabilities.

The Ranji Trophy 2026-27 provides him with a red-ball platform to demonstrate control and variation across longer spells. Consistent performances for his state side could position him as a spin option worth considering as India prepares for a demanding schedule in 2027.

1. Mohammed Shami

Mohammed Shami has not played Test cricket since 2023 and has been absent from all formats since 2025, despite putting in strong performances during the 2025-26 domestic season. The Bengal pacer will be hoping that consistent wicket-taking for his state side in the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy can attract the attention of selectors ahead of the home Test series against Australia.

The fact that India’s coach has publicly addressed the question of Shami’s potential comeback suggests the door has not been shut entirely. A productive Ranji campaign could be the clearest signal Shami sends to the selection panel.