World Cup 2023: Mohammed Shami speaks out after benching in first four games

 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023: After India's thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand in an ICC Cricket World Cup match, fast bowler Mohammed Shami reflected on his confidence boost after being on the sidelines for the first four games. He acknowledged that waiting for an opportunity wasn't difficult, as the team had performed exceptionally well in those previous matches.

Shami and the renowned 'Chase Master' Virat Kohli played pivotal roles in India's success. Their outstanding performances with both the ball and the bat led the hosts to their fifth consecutive World Cup win, significantly advancing their chances of securing a spot in the top four.

This four-wicket triumph over New Zealand, who had held the top spot on the points table before this clash, propelled India to the leading position with 10 points. It also marked the end of India's 20-year losing streak to New Zealand in ICC events.

Shami expressed the importance of regaining confidence early when returning to the XI after an extended absence. His performance in the ongoing World Cup played a crucial role in rebuilding his self-belief. He emphasized that it wasn't challenging to wait on the sidelines while the team excelled. In such situations, supporting one's teammates becomes a priority, and Shami was content to do so. He credited the significance of his wickets, especially against a formidable opponent like New Zealand.

In the match against New Zealand, India won the toss and chose to field, making a strong start by reducing the Kiwis to 19/2 within the power-play. However, a resilient partnership of 159 runs between Daryl Mitchell and Rachin Ravindra, with Mitchell scoring a century, allowed New Zealand to recover.

India's bowlers struck back in the latter part of New Zealand's innings, ultimately dismissing them for 273 runs in 50 overs. Shami's brilliant performance with figures of 5/54 and Kuldeep Yadav's strong finish with 2/73 were noteworthy. India's new-ball pair of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj also contributed with one wicket each.

Chasing a target of 274, India made a sensational start with skipper Rohit Sharma and Shubhman Gill, who put together a 71-run opening partnership. While India did lose a few wickets in the middle overs, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja's partnership guided the hosts to a four-wicket victory with two overs to spare.

Mohammed Shami was named the 'Player of the Match' for his impressive five-wicket haul.

Also Read: 'Cyclone Tej' to make landfall in Yemen on Tuesday; deep depression in Bay of Bengal, warns IMD

- With inputs from agencies

Join Whatsapp Channel