Mohammed Shami showcased his brilliance for India in the ongoing first ODI against Australia at the Punjab Association IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali. Shami’s impeccable bowling skills rattled the Australian batting lineup, and he left no room for their star player, Steve Smith, to breathe.
The defining moment came in the 22nd over when Mohammed Shami delivered a sharp, inswinging ball that left Steve Smith clueless. Failing to read the delivery, Smith’s inside edge resulted in the ball crashing into his leg stump. Smith had been in fine form, accumulating 41 runs off 60 balls, and appeared poised for a substantial innings. However, Shami’s brilliant delivery abruptly ended his stay at the crease.
WATCH – Blunder From KL Rahul Allows Marnus Labuschagne to Escape Run-Out
Shami played a pivotal role in providing India with a strong start, particularly with the new ball. In the very first over that he bowled, he dismissed the dangerous Mitchell Marsh for a mere 4 runs. This early breakthrough set the tone for India’s bowling attack. Notably, Shami effectively filled in for the unwell Mohammed Siraj.
With the dismissal of Steve Smith, Australia found themselves in a difficult position, having lost three wickets. David Warner, who had scored 52 runs, remained the highest run-scorer for the visitors. At this point in the match, Australia’s score stood at 112/3.
Here is the video of the dismissal:
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra voiced his support for Mohammed Shami to become a regular feature in India’s playing XI. He advocated for Shami’s inclusion alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, emphasizing the need for three genuine fast bowlers.
ALSO READ: Ahmedabad’s Skies Witness Soaring Flight Prices As India vs. Pakistan World Cup Clash Nears
Chopra suggested that on flat pitches, where batting tends to dominate, India could opt for three specialist fast bowlers. While acknowledging the depth in India’s batting lineup, he emphasized the importance of playing a proper bowler at No. 9, in addition to having quality bowlers like Ravichandran Ashwin or Washington Sundar at No. 8. Mohammed Shami’s exceptional performance in the first ODI against Australia certainly bolstered his case for a regular spot in the team’s playing XI.
