Mohammed Shami's Stunning Performance in Champions Trophy Debut Against Bangladesh
Mohammed Shami delivered an outstanding performance in his first Champions Trophy match, securing impressive bowling figures of 5-53, helping India claim a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh.
Shami’s Perfect Response to Trolls Over His Religion
When asked about being trolled over his religion, Mohammed Shami had a brilliant response.
On Thursday, India’s fast bowler Mohammed Shami shared that after making a comeback from a career-threatening injury, he aimed to consistently take wickets in the Champions Trophy. Shami played a crucial role in India’s victory, stepping up in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who was ruled out due to a back injury.
The 34-year-old pacer had also suffered multiple injuries to his ankle, heel, and knee towards the end of last year, which delayed his return to competitive cricket after the 2023 ODI World Cup final.
Shami’s Journey from World Cup Star to Injury Struggles
Shami was India’s standout bowler in the 2023 World Cup, taking 24 wickets in seven matches. However, despite his efforts, India lost the final to Australia in Ahmedabad.
Speaking to reporters, Shami said, “It was tough to get injured and fall behind after the kind of form I had in the World Cup. Those 14 months were very difficult because I had to repeat everything, and it frustrated me. But I regained my confidence through domestic matches and four international games against England.”
Regarding his consistent performance in ICC tournaments, Shami added, “I always try, especially in ICC events, that even if I concede a lot of runs, I should at least take some wickets.”
Shami has been a key player for India in top tournaments, surpassing former pacer Zaheer Khan by taking 60 wickets in ICC ODI tournaments. Zaheer had 59 wickets.
Watching From the Sidelines Was Tough for Shami
India recently suffered a 3-1 Test series loss to Australia, and Shami’s absence was deeply felt as Bumrah often lacked solid support from the other end. Shami admitted that watching from the sidelines was equally painful for him.
“You always miss your bowling unit and the teammates you usually play with. You always think, ‘I wish I could contribute too.’ When you’re injured, all you can do is watch the match ball by ball, and it’s frustrating,” he said.
Shami’s Social Media Experience After 2021 T20 World Cup Loss to Pakistan
Dubai holds a special place in Shami’s cricketing journey, both for highs and lows. It was in this city that he faced vicious online abuse after India’s defeat to Pakistan in the 2021 T20 World Cup. Shami was targeted because of his religion, but then-captain Virat Kohli and several former players came to his defense.
When asked about that incident, Shami responded, “Nowadays, social media can bring unwanted things to your mind. I prefer not to think about such matters. People will remind you of your bad performances, and it will sting, but as a cricketer, you shouldn’t look too far back. Just focus on the present and plan for the future.”
India’s Next Challenge: A High-Stakes Clash Against Pakistan
India’s next match in the tournament is a much-anticipated face-off against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday.