In a candid conversation on Aap Ki Adalat, Mohammed Shami opened up about a playful incident when Virat Kohli once referred to him as “lazy.” The fast bowler recalled that this label came up during recovery sessions, where he often dozed off while getting a massage. Shami explained with a smile that after bowling long spells in test matches, physical and mental fatigue made short naps necessary.
He clarified that such comments were never meant to define him, adding: “Even if someone calls me lazy or lala, that doesn’t matter. What matters is that I always give my 100% on the field.” His perspective highlighted how athletes manage both pressure and recovery while still delivering consistent performances.
Humor, Language, and Dressing-Room Memories
Shami also shared lighter anecdotes about language barriers in international cricket. He recalled a press interaction where he attempted to answer in English but struggled with accent and flow. In a joking manner, he said: “Kohli was brought during the New Zealand series just to handle English accent issues.”
This playful comment left both Shami and Kohli laughing. Reflecting on the experience, Shami added that there is nothing wrong in switching to Hindi when English feels difficult, emphasizing that intent and clarity of thought matter more than fluency.
Another nostalgic moment he spoke about was his dressing-room speech on debut. Nervous yet eager to introduce himself, Shami admitted he preferred to speak in Hindi rather than fumble in English. “I told them I will speak in Hindi because my English was not that good. The important thing was that I wanted to learn from the seniors and give my best.” This humility and honesty, he believes, shaped his bond with teammates over the years.
A Heartfelt Gesture from Kohli
Beyond cricketing banter, Shami fondly recalled a deeply emotional incident during the Champions Trophy. It was the first time his mother attended one of his matches in person, a proud yet overwhelming moment for him. What touched him most was Kohli’s thoughtful gesture: “Virat went to my mother and touched her feet. That respect he showed is something I can never forget.” For Shami, such moments reflect the camaraderie and respect that go far beyond the boundaries of the field.
By sharing these stories, Shami offered fans a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the locker-room atmosphere—where jokes, cultural quirks, and heartfelt gestures come together to build lasting friendships and team spirit.
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