Mohammed Shami is all set to make his much-awaited return to the international scene after over a year with the five-match T20I series against England. He was also named in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy squad.
With the T20I series set to begin at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Wednesday, January 22, the BCCI shared a heartwarming video on its social media, in which Shami reflected on his journey and inspiration while flying a kite.
The video begins with the Indian pacer sharing that it has been a long time since he flew a kite as cricket has 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 cricket life: Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami compared the balance needed to fly a kite to the pace and concentration required on the field. The seasoned pacer stressed that maintaining fitness, mindset and skills 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 BCCI on social media: “The balance of kite flying is like the life of 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. Regardless, your fitness, mindset, and skills are important for bowling.
The same goes for kite flying. It doesn’t matter if it’s flying a kite, playing 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. Confidence is therefore important for any task.
“You should not 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 throughout his long journey.
However, the Indian coach admitted that he initially felt some fear while running, but managed to overcome it completely.
Mohammed Shami further explained his view: “When we are little our parents teach us to walk, so we fall and get up but don’t stop learning to walk, so you should not give up on your stubbornness. Even if you fall, you have to get up and walk again, so the same way in the same profession, if you get injured, you have to work hard for your team and your country, so I always say this: keep fighting , keep moving forward. .”
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Mohammed Shami says injuries make him a stronger player
The Bengal pacer also mentioned that when a player is doing well, everyone is on his side, but he faces the real test during his difficult times.
Shami said that he waited a whole year and worked very hard to make his comeback. He also pointed out that injuries made him even stronger as an athlete because he had to repeat a lot of things while being mentally strong.
Mohammed Shami said he always believed in hard work and his difficult phase was now over. The Indian pacer said setbacks are a part of life but the key is to get back up and keep moving forward. Injuries can knock you down, but the determination to come back, for your team and your country, is what really matters. Shami concluded by saying, “So, fight and grow!”
After trial periods and a long wait, he’s back to don the blues 💙
For Mohd. Shami, it’s only “UP & UP” 👆🏻 from now on
WATCH 🎥🔽 #TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @MdShami11 | @IDFCFIRSTBank
– BCCI (@BCCI) January 22, 2025
