Our pace attack is good enough to challenge any team in the world - Mohammed Shami

Mohammed Shami finished as the leading wicket-taker in the recently concluded ODI World Cup despite being drafted into the XI only midway through the tournament. 

Shami finished the ODI World Cup with figures of 24 wickets from just seven innings, averaging a mind-blowing 10.70 and not only did he topple eminent batting lineups, but he played with a long-standing injury where he had to take an injection ahead of every single match just to remain fit.

Owing to his bowling credentials and his massive contributions to India’s growth in the field of cricket, Shami was ennobled with the honour of the Arjuna Award, the second highest accolade awarded in the sporting field to an individual in India. 

The pacer was ruled out of the Test series against South Africa due to an ankle injury, and he has also not been named in India’s squad for the Afghanistan T20I series. Talking to Times of India ahead of the momentous honour bestowed upon him, Shami shared detailed insights of his recovery and how he is setting sights upon the upcoming England series, hoping to make a significant impact against the Three Lions.

Shami said, “My rehabilitation is well on track and the medical experts at NCA are happy with my progress. There is slight stiffness in my ankle but that's fine. I have started my training sessions and I believe I will be able to make a comeback in the England series. I am targeting the series for my return.”

He also expressed his delight at India’s performance in the distant shores of the Rainbow Nation and said, “We did well in the second Test. Everyone pitched in and our bowling effort was brilliant. It was a brilliant comeback by India to level the series. Unfortunately, I missed it because of injury but I want to get back to competitive cricket as soon as possible. Hopefully, you can see me back in action against England.”

Shami concluded by talking about the Indian pace bowling attack, stating, “I can say this with confidence that we are one of the world's best pace attacks. You saw that during the ODI World Cup. In the SA series, Jasprit and Siraj bowled brilliantly in the second Test. All I can say is that our pace attack is good enough to challenge any team in the world."