Mohammed Shami is all set to make his much-awaited return to the international arena after more than a year with the five-match T20I series against England. He was also included in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad.
As the T20I series begins at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens on Wednesday, January 22, the BCCI shared a heartwarming video on its social media, where Shami reflects on his journey and inspiration while flying a kite.
The video starts with the Indian pacer sharing that it has been a long time since he last flew a kite as cricket kept him busy but he can still fly a kite and knows how to keep it balanced. Even Shami made a significant connection between flying a kite and playing cricket.
Kite balance is like life in cricket: Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami compared the balance needed to fly a kite to the pace and concentration needed on the field. The experienced pacer emphasized that maintaining fitness, mentality and skill is as crucial in bowling as it is in controlling a kite, but it is always about confidence.
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Mohammed Shami said in the video shared by the BCCI on social media: “Kite balance is like life in cricket; If you are placed in the crease, you will score runs and take wickets. Rhythm is very important; Everything in life has a flow. Whatever it is, your fitness, mentality and skill are important for bowling.
The same goes for the kite. It doesn’t matter if it’s flying a kite, bowling or driving a car; If you are strong and believe in yourself, I don’t think you will find any difference. Look, even after 15 years, I can fly this kite. Therefore, trust is important for any task.”
‘You shouldn’t give up your stubbornness’
Meanwhile, the 34-year-old attributed his successful recovery to his resilience and determination. Shami said his constant drive to return to the field and represent his country kept him motivated during his long journey.
However, the Indian pacer admitted that he initially felt some fear while running but managed to overcome it completely.
Mohammed Shami further explained his point: “When we are little, our parents teach us to walk, that is why we fall and get up, but we do not stop learning to walk, so you should not give up your stubbornness. Even if you fall, you have to get up and walk again, so in the same profession, if you get hurt, you have to work hard for your team and your country, that’s why I always say this: keep fighting, keep going. .”
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Mohammed Shami says injuries make him a stronger player
The Bengal pacer also mentioned that when a player does well, everyone is on his side, but he faces the real test in his tough times.
Shami said he waited a whole year and worked very hard to return. He also noted that the injuries made him even stronger as an athlete because he had to repeat many things while being mentally strong.
Mohammed Shami said that he always believes in hard work and his difficult phase is over. The Indian pacer said that setbacks are a part of life, but the key is to get back up and keep moving forward. Injuries can knock you down, but what really matters is the determination to come back, for your team and your country. Shami signed off saying, “So, fight and grow!”
After trying times and a long wait, he is back to put on the blues
For Mohd. Shami, from now on it will only be “UP AND UP”
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#TeamIndia | #INVENGE | @MdShami11 | @IDFCFIRSTBank
-BCCI (@BCCI) January 22, 2025
