From watching to winning: Shami’s dream return to big stage
Dubai: For 14 months, Mohammed Shami could only watch. Injuries had sidelined him, forcing him to witness matches from the outside, itching to make an impact. On Thursday, in the heat of the Dubai International Cricket Stadium — famously known as the “Ring of Fire” — he finally got his moment — and he seized it in spectacular fashion. His fiery five-wicket haul set the stage for India’s dominant victory over Bangladesh..Delivering when it matters most.The 34-year-old pacer, returning to the XI after overcoming a string of injuries, produced a match-winning spell against Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy Group A match. His five-wicket haul (5 for 53) not only powered India to victory but also reaffirmed his status as a game-changer when it mattered most..Should Rohit Sharma retire after the Champions Trophy?.Shubman Gill’s superlative effort with the bat wasn’t enough to earn him the Player of the Match award, but Shami was simply happy to be back leading India’s bowling attack and delivering results when his team needed him the most..“You always miss your bowling unit and the ones you’re usually with,” said Shami, who finished with figures of 5 for 53..“You always think, ‘I wish I could contribute as well.’ You always miss that when you’re injured, and then you can’t do anything apart from watching games, ball by ball.”.Overcoming setbacks to shine again.Shami had spearheaded India’s bowling attack in the 50-over World Cup at home, claiming 24 wickets in seven matches. But despite his stellar performances, India fell short in the final against Australia in Ahmedabad. Upon his return, he stepped up once again, filling the void left by Jasprit Bumrah, who was ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury..“It was difficult to get injured and go down from the form that I had in the World Cup,” Shami told reporters..“Those 14 months were very difficult as I had to repeat all the things, and that pinches you — you feel the pain. But I got those domestic matches and four international games (against England) to get my confidence back.”.Shami only returned to competitive cricket late last year after battling a series of injuries, including issues with his ankle, heel, and knee, which delayed his recovery following the 2023 ODI World Cup final..Rohit Sharma’s high praise for Shami.Skipper Rohit Sharma had the highest praise for the pacer and his unwavering attitude..“Very happy for Shami. He has been waiting for a long time,” Rohit Sharma told the official broadcasters after India’s six-wicket victory..Shami’s absence was felt during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where India struggled to sustain pressure on Australia, allowing the batters to escape in crucial moments..“We know what he brings for us, the quality he has. Every time we throw the ball at him, he’s got something up his sleeve. We need guys like him to step up in big moments.” .Eyes set on Pakistan clash.Shami’s five-wicket haul also saw him surpass former left-arm pacer Zaheer Khan as India’s leading wicket-taker in ODIs. But for the seasoned pacer, records are secondary — his focus remains on the road ahead..“You should stay in the same frame after winning a game. Whether it’s an ICC event or international games, there’s no need to think too much. You have to believe in yourself,” he said..With his confidence restored and rhythm back, Shami now turns his attention to the much-anticipated clash against Pakistan on Sunday — a stage where heroes are made.
Source: A.K.S. Satish