Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami expressed his eagerness to play as many matches as possible for India, knowing the opportunity may not arise after retirement. He also shared his commitment to overcoming fitness setbacks, emphasizing that a sportsperson’s drive to represent their country should never diminish.
Shami was the top wicket-taker at the 2023 ODI World Cup, picking up 24 wickets in seven matches at an average of 10.71, including three five-wicket hauls and one four-wicket haul. However, the 34-year-old hasn’t played internationally since the World Cup final due to a heel injury.
He underwent surgery in February 2024 to repair his Achilles tendon. After demonstrating his form and fitness in domestic cricket, Shami has been selected for the upcoming T20I series against England, as well as the ODI squad for the England series and the 15-man provisional squad for the Champions Trophy.
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Speaking at an event hosted by the Cricket Association of Bengal on Monday, January 20, Shami shared insights into his struggles with injuries. Reflecting philosophically, he stated (as quoted by PTI):
“Country ke liye jo khelne ki bhoonkh hai woh kabhi khatam nahin honi chahiye. Appko agar usse pyar hai toh aap hamesha fightback karte rahenge, injured chahe aap 10 baar ho jaye.” (The first thing I feel is that the hunger to play for the country should never end. If you have that hunger, you will always fight back, even if you get injured 10 times.)
“Mere dimaag mein hamesha yehi rehta hai mein kitna bhi match khel loon woh mere liye kam hai, kyunke ek baar agar meine cricket chhoda toh shayad woh dobara na hoga (No matter how many matches I play, it always feels like less. Because once I leave cricket, I may never get this chance again),” the seasoned pacer added.
Shami’s Latest Performances in Domestic Cricket
Shami featured in three matches for Bengal in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, taking one wicket each against Bihar and Madhya Pradesh. He also shone with figures of 3-61 in the pre-quarterfinal against Haryana, although Bengal lost by 72 runs.
In the earlier Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy T20 competition, the 34-year-old fast bowler played nine matches, claiming 11 wickets at an average of 25.36 and an economy rate of 7.85, with his best performance being 3-21.
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