At the recent CEAT Cricket Awards 2024, Mohammad Shami’s humorous response to starting the World Cup 2023 on the bench had Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid in stitches. A video from the event, which surfaced on X (formerly Twitter), captured the light-hearted exchange between Shami and the host, leaving everyone laughing.
When asked how he kept himself motivated despite being a second-choice bowler at the start of the World Cup, Mohammed Shami quipped, “(Aadat pad gayi shayad) Maybe I’m used to it now.” This witty remark sent Rohit into fits of laughter, while even the usually composed Rahul Dravid couldn’t help but smile.
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Dressed sharply in a black outfit with a white blazer, Mohammed Shami shared his thoughts on being left out of the starting XI at the beginning of previous World Cups as well. “In 2015, 2019, and 2023, I had the same start. But once I got my chance, thankfully, my performances made sure they couldn’t drop me again,” he said, reflecting on how he had to bide his time before making an impact.
Always ready, always hungry, always on top! 🙌🏻💪🏻#MohammedShami opens up on the drive that keeps him pushing forward, even after being benched in the early stages of the World Cup! 💥
Watch the Full episode – CEAT Cricket Awards on YouTube channel pic.twitter.com/ZJOkfryXpt
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) September 2, 2024
Mohammed Shami continued his humorous streak by joking about the challenges of proving himself only when given the opportunity. “Hard work is key, but you have to be ready for your chance. Otherwise, all you can do is run onto the field with water! So, when you get that opportunity, you better seize it,” he added with a grin.
And seize it he did. Shami emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the 2023 World Cup, grabbing 24 wickets in just seven matches. Despite starting the tournament on the bench for India’s first four games against Australia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, he made an immediate impact when given his chance against New Zealand in Dharamshala, where he took a five-wicket haul.
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Mohammed Shami followed that up with a four-wicket performance against England and continued his form throughout the tournament. His crowning moment came in the semi-final against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium, where he claimed seven wickets, ensuring India’s spot in the final.
Recognising his outstanding performances throughout the year, Mohammed Shami was honoured with the Best ODI Bowler of the Year award at the CEAT Cricket Awards 2024, a fitting tribute to his persistence and excellence on the field.
