Team India fast bowler Mohammed Shami has expressed his commitment to staying positive and celebrating the success of his teammates when he isn’t in the starting lineup. He acknowledges that sitting out can be challenging, but he’s always prepared to help the team when they need him.
Shami made his first appearance in the 2023 World Cup during the match against New Zealand in Dharamsala on Sunday, October 22, and had a spectacular comeback to the playing XI. He took 5 wickets for 54 runs and was honored as the Player of the Match.
Thanks to Shami’s outstanding performance, India managed to limit New Zealand to a total of 273 runs. This was achieved after India won the toss and chose to field first, even with Daryl Mitchell scoring 130 runs.
During the post-match press conference, the 33-year-old cricketer discussed the difficulties of being in and out of the starting lineup.
“Personally, I keep my outlook as – you keep enjoying because, in India, the biggest sport is cricket. The biggest place is the one where you are sitting.”
”It’s not necessary to be there [in playing XI]. You have 15 players. Four of them have to stay out. So, by being positive and enjoying, I feel you will get more results,” he said.
“So, I always say to myself, if I am not here today, I will be here tomorrow. If not tomorrow, then day after tomorrow. They [chances] do come in rotation.”
”And when your time comes, you contribute for the team. I am happy for the ones who are performing now and that’s it,” the fast bowler added.
Shami made an impact right from the beginning of the match, taking a wicket with his very first ball by bowling out Will Young for 17 runs. Towards the end of the innings, he showcased his skills by getting rid of Mitchell Santner and Matt Henry with two superb deliveries on consecutive balls.
“Everyone should take pleasure in each other’s achievements”- Shami
Explaining how he stays motivated while not playing, Shami mentioned that he pays close attention to the game from the bench. He also stressed that for the team to do well, all the players should celebrate each other’s successes.
“I was watching everything from the bench. My mindset is to do something when I am given the chance. But yes, it is very important.”
”When you are not playing, it is very difficult. But if your team is performing, your boys are moving in a rhythm, then I don’t think you should feel guilty sitting outside,” he said.
“You are also a part of the team and a part of the World Cup. I think everyone should enjoy each other’s success,” the pacer concluded.”
Shami has an outstanding track record in the ODI World Cup. In 12 matches up to now, he has taken 36 wickets at an average of 15.02, which includes three instances of taking four wickets and two instances of taking five wickets in a match.
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