Mohammed Shami isn’t done yet. In just his third international match since May, the Indian pacer achieved his best-ever ODI figures of 5/51 during the series opener between India and Australia at Mohali’s PCA Stadium.
This marked only his second five-wicket haul in ODIs. Shami, stepping in for the in-form Mohammed Siraj, who recently took six wickets against Sri Lanka at the Asia Cup, showcased his prowess both with the new and old ball, leaving selectors with a pleasant dilemma ahead of the World Cup.
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Muhammad shami on fire
5 wickets against Aus #ausvsind#BCCI pic.twitter.com/R0ow3daAFn— jahanzaib (@jahanza72340151) September 22, 2023
Questions about Shami’s future had emerged with Siraj’s rapid ascent, but his fiery performance in this match quelled any doubts. Reflecting on his achievement, Shami attributed it to years of team camaraderie.
Despite challenging conditions, Shami made an impact, dismissing Mitchell Marsh early and claiming four more crucial wickets as Australia posted 276. He, like his fellow pacers, felt the searing heat in Mohali, necessitating a break after an initial four-over burst.
However, he returned for his second spell, reenergized, and accounted for Steve Smith. Shami excelled in the death overs, using slower balls effectively and dismissing Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Short, and Sean Abbott in quick succession.
With this, he became India’s second-highest wicket-taker in ODIs against Australia, trailing only the legendary Kapil Dev. When asked about the challenging weather, Shami humorously remarked on it before expressing his satisfaction with his wicket-taking spree throughout the innings.
“You guys were in the AC, I was there out in the heat. There was not much the fast bowlers were getting out of the wicket so the slower deliveries were a good option to turn to. If they land in the right areas, the results can really go in your favour. It’s important to mix things up. The team needed and it’s good feeling to get wickets when you’re putting in so much effort. It’s good for the team and your own confidence,” he added.