“Waited a year for this”: Mohammed Shami excited to make Team India return in IND vs ENG 1st T20I

by · Inside Sport India

Mohammed Shami's last outing for India was in the ODI World Cup 2023 Finals

Ace Indian pacer Mohammed Shami is determined to make a strong comeback. He will be making his India Cricket Team return in the IND vs ENG 1st T20I at Eden Gardens. Before the game, Shami reflected back on his 14-month-long wait. He claimed that he has worked hard on his injury and recovery and is raring to go. Shami also claimed that hard work will produce results and can’t wait to hit the field.

Ahead of the game, Shami took to flying kites. He drew a parallel to kit flying with sports and life. He mentioned the importance of balance in kiteflying and life. He claimed that balance is important in the game along with the skillset and fitness.

“It has been almost 15 years since I last flew kites. After leaving home I haven’t flown kites, it has always been the ball that has been in my hands. Balance is important in kites as well as in our game. Everything in life has a flow. In bowling, your fitness, and skill are important,” Shami said.

“If you are strong and have confidence in yourself, there won’t be any difference. You must have the confidence to do things. The real test is who stands with you during your difficult times,” he added.

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Long wait comes to an end!

Mohammed Shami has been on the sidelines for 14 long months. His last outing came in the ODI World Cup finals against Australia. Following this he underwent an ankle injury.

“I have waited 1 year for this. Worked hard for a year. I used to be afraid while running, thinking about what could happen. It is very difficult for any player to get injured and come to the NCA for rehab. When you go through injuries, you return stronger as a person. You have to repeat things and remain mentally strong. If you work hard, you will get the results,” said the pacer.

Shami made his comeback to domestic cricket a couple of months back. But now the stage is set for his mega comeback in international cricket. Interestingly, Shami is set to play a T20I match for India after 26 months.

“When we are small, we learn to walk. The determination should be there to get back when you fall down. The same is true with sports. When you are injured, you should comeback for your country, for your team. So fight and grow!” Shami concluded.