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The first T20I India versus England is set for Wednesday January 22th at Eden Gardens Kolkota. Mohammed Shami will offically represent the Indian team afther a break of 15 months. Shami last turned out for the Men in Blue during the 2023 Cricket World Cup final vs Australia.
The 34-year-old suffered and Achilles injury during his heroic mega event where he was the most successful bowler in the tournament. After that he was put under the knife in February last year. He had to undergo timed action and missed out on India’s T20 World Cup winning squad.
Shami was likely to come back during India's Test season, but issue with his knee pushed his return further. In the last few months, he has featured in the Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and Vijay Hazare Trophy to demonstrate his fitness. He has also been included in India's squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Speaking on his return to the national team, Shami disclosed that it was the zeal to serve the country that has kept him alive. The veteran pacer admitted he understands that the day will come when he will not be able to don the national jersey and want to play as much as he can before he calls it off.
"Country ke liye jo khelne ki bhoonkh hai woh kabhi khatam nahin honi chahiye. Appko agar usse pyar hai toh aap hamesha fightback karte rahenge, injured chahe aap 10 baar ho jaye (The first thing I feel is that the hunger to play for the country should never end. If you have that hunger, you will always fight back, no matter how many times you get injured,” Shami explained during an event of the Cricket Association of Bengal CAP.
“Shami ka kehna hai, ‘Koi bhi hai mera dimaag hamesha isse bhaari hai, kyunke ek baar mein chhod toh nahi hoga. (In my mind, there is always this feeling, even if I play cricket without a break, it will always feel less, because once I quit cricket, I may never get this opportunity again).”
