East Zone ended a 13-year wait for the Duleep Trophy title after being crowned champions in the 2026/27 season. Led by Ishan Kishan, East Zone dominated the final against South Zone, with veteran India pacer Mohammed Shami playing an important role in their campaign. East Zone posted a mammoth 708 in their first innings, with captain Ishan Kishan producing a sensational 270.

South Zone struggled in reply and were bowled out for 336, leaving East Zone with a commanding 372-run first-innings lead. With the match eventually ending in a draw, East Zone secured the title by virtue of their substantial lead. Following the final, Shami spoke to RevSportz about several aspects of his cricket, including the emergence of teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

The experienced pacer praised the 15-year-old batter and urged him to remain focused while enjoying the game. “We have a 15-year-old with us. So, the career is practically bigger. Specifically for him (Sooryavanshi), I say that he has a long career ahead. He needs a lot of focus, so keep at it. You have earned a name, fame and a great game. Take care of yourself, enjoy it.”

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At 36, Mohammed Shami also acknowledged the physical demands of being a fast bowler but made it clear that his passion for cricket remains strong. Despite the challenges associated with playing at this stage of his career, the veteran continues to put in the hard yards.

“Bahut mehnat karna padta hai bhai (it takes a lot of hard work).” When asked what keeps him motivated, Shami simply replied: “I’m very much enjoying my cricket.”

Mohammed Shami turned 36 last week and has been out of the national selectors’ radar for the past 18 months.https://t.co/Jb7ZeGlSOD

— cricket22yards (@cricket22yard) September 11, 2026

The veteran pacer also shared valuable insights into the art of reverse swing, an area where he has long been regarded as one of India’s finest practitioners. Shami explained that maintaining the ball is crucial, particularly because saliva cannot be used. “For reverse-swing, it’s very important to maintain the ball. You can’t use saliva. So, you have to rely on sweat only to shine the ball. The seam position is important, as is hitting the ball hard on the surface.”

Shami impressed during the Duleep Trophy final and claimed two wickets in South Zone’s first innings. His performances in domestic cricket have once again raised questions over his absence from the Indian team. However, the pacer appears determined not to dwell on matters outside his control. When asked about an international comeback, Shami said he has stopped worrying about selection and remains focused on performing for his team.

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“I have stopped thinking about something that is not in my hands. I’m enjoying my cricket. I’m doing the hard work. And I always play for the badge.” His response also reflected his confidence in his fitness. When questioned about whether he remains physically ready, Shami responded: “Didn’t you watch the game? Did I look unfit?” For now, Shami’s focus remains on performing, enjoying his cricket and continuing to contribute whenever he gets the opportunity.