Mohammed Shami is one of the best fast bowlers to play for India in international cricket. He has been out of action since the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. The veteran underwent ankle surgery and is currently working hard on his comeback. He also visited the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for his rehabilitation.
Shami was not a part of the Playing XI in the first few games of the global tournament. Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah were preferred over him but due to an injury to Hardik Pandya, the speedster was given a chance in the side. He went on to take 24 wickets in seven games.
During the CEAT Cricket Awards, he spoke with anchor Mayanti Langer about getting benched in the three ODI World Cups.
Former India head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma were also present during the ceremony.
“I am habitual to it,” he said when asked about his ability to give match-winning performances after being benched.
“In 2015, 2019 and 2023, I had the same kind of start. When I was given a chance by the team management, I performed, and they never thought of dropping me again. I am always ready for a chance. You should be ready to prove yourself when a chance comes. Otherwise, I can only serve water to players on the field. It is better to grab the opportunity when you get it,” he added.
Shami will play for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy before his return to the national team. He will miss the two-Test series against Bangladesh and is likely to be a part of the second or the third Test in the series against New Zealand.
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