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Mohammed Shami’s Determined Comeback: Bengal Coach Reveals His Sacrifice, Including Biryani
By CricShots - Jan 20, 2025 6:27 pm
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Bengal fast bowling coach Shib Shankar Paul has revealed the remarkable dedication Mohammed Shami has shown in his effort to make a long-awaited comeback to international cricket. According to Paul, Shami’s hunger to return to the Indian team drove him to extreme measures, including surviving on just one meal a day for months and giving up his favourite indulgence—biryani.

Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami

Shami, one of India’s standout performers in the 2023 World Cup, has been sidelined since suffering an ankle injury during the tournament. The injury led to complications, including knee swelling, which ruled him out for the entirety of 2024. Despite being a vital cog in India’s bowling attack, the team management chose not to risk him in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

However, Mohammed Shami has now been named in India’s squad for the T20I series against England, starting January 22, as well as the ODI series and the 2025 Champions Trophy. Shib ShankarPaul, speaking to Sportsboom.com, highlighted Shami’s extraordinary commitment to his recovery.

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“Fast bowlers take time to return from injuries. Shami was so hungry to return that he would bowl even after finishing a game. His dedication is incredible,” Shib Shankar Paul said. He also noted Shami’s disciplined lifestyle during recovery. “He was the first to arrive at the ground by 6 am, even on match days, and he followed a strict diet. Despite his love for biryani, he hasn’t touched it in two months.”

Shib Shankar Paul
Shib Shankar Paul

India has keenly felt Shami’s absence. Without him, they suffered defeats in key series, including an ODI series loss to Sri Lanka and a Test whitewash by New Zealand at home, before failing to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.

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Anustup Majumdar, Shami’s former Bengal teammate, provided further insights into his recovery. “Shami may not yet be at full throttle, but the England series could be the litmus test for him,” Majumdar said. He emphasized Shami’s progress in domestic matches, noting improved pace and sharper lengths. “Physically, he looks lean and in excellent shape,” he added.

Shami’s return promises to bolster India’s bowling attack, with his unwavering determination and disciplined preparation signalling his readiness to reclaim his place among the world’s elite fast bowlers.