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 named in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad.
As the T20I series is set to begin at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Wednesday, January 22, the BCCI shared a heartwarming video on their social media where Shami reflected on his journey and inspiration while flying a kite.
The video starts with the Indian pacer saying 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 meaningful connection between flying a kite and playing cricket.
Kite balance is like lives in cricket: Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami compared the balance required to fly a kite to the pace and focus required on the field. The experienced pacer stressed that maintaining fitness, mindset 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 BCCI on social media, “Kite balance is like lives in cricket; if you are set at the crease you will score runs and take wickets. Rhythm is very important; everything in life has a flow. Whatever it is, your fitness, mindset and skills are important to bowling.
The same goes for the kite. It doesn't matter if they are flying a kite, bowling or driving a car; if you are strong and believe in yourself then i don't think you will find any difference. Look, even after 15 years, I can still fly this kite. Therefore, confidence 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 desire to return to the field and represent his country at home motivated him throughout his long journey.
However, the Indian pacer admitted that initially he felt some fear while running but managed to overcome it completely.
Mohammed Shami further explained his point of view: “When we are small, our parents teach us to walk, so we fall and get up, but we never stop learning to walk, so you should not give up your stubbornness . Even if you fall down you have to get up and go again so same in the same profession if you get injured you have to work hard for your team and your country so I always say like this fight 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 does well, everyone is on his side, but he faces the real test in his tough moments.
Shami said he waited for a whole year and worked hard to make a comeback. He also pointed out 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 hard phase is over now. 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 the determination to come back, for your team and your country, is what really counts. Shami concluded by saying, “So fight and grow!”
After testing times and a long wait, he returned to wear the blues 💙
For Mohd. Shami, it's only “UP & UP” 👆🏻 from here on out
LOOK 🎥🔽 #TeamIndia | #INVENT | @MdShami11 | @IDFCFIRSTBank https://t.co/V03n61Yd6Y
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 22, 2025