Follow UsMohammad Shami is making his return to international cricket after more than 400 days away from the game, and emotions poured out of the elite pacer when asked about his time away from the game.
Shami had got his knee operated after the 2023 ODI World Cup where he put up a performance for the ages. He failed to get fit in time for the Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in 2024/25 where India suffered in his absence. Jasprit Bumrah had to over bowl and got injured as a result.
Speaking to the BCCI media team, Shami opened up on how it felt to be away from the hustle and bustle of Indian men’s cricket.
“When you are scoring runs and taking wickets, everyone is with you,” Shami said in the BCCI TV video.
“But the real test is to realise who is with you during tough times. I waited for an entire year, and I worked very hard. There was a sense of fear even while running.
“It is difficult for any player to get injured after being in full flow, go to the NCA for rehabilitation and then make a comeback.”
Even in such a tough times where basic tasks such as running could have been a huge deal for him, Shami felt that his time away from the game help him grow stronger as an athlete mentally.
“When you go through injuries, I feel you grow stronger as an athlete because you have to repeat a lot of things while being mentally strong,” Shami said.
“Whatever is done, it is done. I have crossed that phase. If you work hard, you will get the result. That’s what I believe. Doesn’t matter if it is flying a kite, bowling or driving a car, if you are strong and believe in yourself, then I don’t think you will find any difference. Look even after 15 years, I am able to fly this kite. Hence, confidence is very important for any task.”