Mohammed Shami faced a tough phase after his stellar 2015 World Cup run, struggling with a knee injury and family issues that sidelined him for nearly two years. Between 2017 and 2018, he managed only five ODIs as fitness and focus eluded him. Determined to make a comeback, Shami followed an intense training regime, regaining his form.
His hard work earned him a recall for tours of Australia and New Zealand, where he impressed with 14 wickets.This resurgence secured his spot in the 2019 World Cup squad. Shami excelled, taking 14 wickets in four games, including a hat-trick—only the second by an Indian in World Cup history. However, he was left out of India’s semi-final against New Zealand, where they were eliminated.
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Mohammed Shami’s performance since year 2020 (International matches)
- 2020: 14 innings, 19 wickets
- 2021: 14 innings, 29 wickets
- 2022: 19 innings, 23 wickets
- 2023: 27 innings, 56 wickets
In 2023, Shami displayed exceptional form, taking 56 wickets in 27 innings. He also won the Purple Cap in IPL 2023.
Shami concluded the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 as the top wicket-taker, with 24 wickets in seven matches. His performances included three five-wicket hauls and one four-wicket haul, with a career-best of 7/57 against New Zealand in the semi-finals.
Despite facing physical challenges on his heel, Shami’s commitment to the game remained strong, contributing significantly to India’s World Cup campaign.
Since India’s loss to Australia in the ODI World Cup final in November 2023, Shami has not participated in any matches. He was selected for India’s two-Test tour of South Africa in December 2023 but was ruled out due to fitness issues.
In January 2024, Shami travelled to London for specialised injections for his ankle. After treatment, he was advised to gradually increase his activity. However, the injections did not yield the expected results, leading to surgery on his Achilles tendon.
Fans hoped for Shami’s smooth return ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, but India captain Rohit Sharma revealed, Shami has developed swelling in his knee, which has set back his recovery slightly.
Shami has been honoured with the Arjuna Award and has achieved impressive career records, with 229 Test wickets, 195 ODI wickets, and 24 T20Is wickets.