In a heartwarming turn of events, star pacer Mohammed Shami has revealed how Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unexpected visit to the Indian dressing room after the World Cup loss served as a balm for the team’s shattered spirits. Shami, who emerged as the tournament’s top wicket-taker despite India’s defeat, described the moment as a “big surprise” that helped them move forward.
“We were heartbroken, sitting dejectedly,” Mohammed Shami admitted in an interview with Aaj Tak. “Losing the final felt like two months of hard work negated in a single match. But then, PM Modi entered. We weren’t told he was coming, and suddenly, there he was.”
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The Prime Minister’s visit, captured in a widely shared video, showed him hugging Shami and praising his performance. This gesture, Shami revealed, broke the ice for the team. “Earlier, we couldn’t even talk to each other,” he said. “But when PM Modi spoke to all of us, it was like a switch flipped. We started talking, consoling each other, and realizing we needed to move on.”
Heart Touching Video –pic.twitter.com/BsP1rhqBvi
— Times Algebra (@TimesAlgebraIND) December 14, 2023
This personal touch from the nation’s leader resonated deeply with Shami. “It meant the world to me,” he said. “His words of encouragement and support were exactly what we needed to hear.”
Prime Minister Modi’s message of support extended beyond the dressing room. He penned a heartfelt note to the team, acknowledging their talent and determination throughout the tournament. “You’ve played with great spirit and brought immense pride to the nation,” he wrote. “We stand with you today and always.”
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As Shami undergoes medical treatment, his return to the Indian squad for the upcoming Test series in South Africa is eagerly awaited. Shami, carrying the momentum of PM Modi’s visit and his own fighting spirit, promises to be a key player in India’s quest for redemption.
