[Watch] "Your support inspires me to aim higher" - Mohammed Shami felicitated by CAB for 2023 World Cup heroics
Team India pacer Mohammed Shami was felicitated by the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) for his stunning bowling exploits at the 2023 ODI World Cup. The speedster was the leading wicket-taker at the edition, bagging 24 wickets in just seven outings.
Taking to his official Instagram handle on Tuesday, September 17, Shami shared a video of him receiving the special award from the CAB. He thanked the Bengal cricket board for supporting him and said it inspires him to do even better in the future.
Shami captioned the post:
"It’s moments like these that remind me why I started this journey. Thank you CAB for this incredible recognition! Your support inspires me to aim higher 🙌🏼🏅."
It is worth mentioning that Mohammed Shami was not part of India's playing XI for the Men in Blue's initial matches at the 2023 ODI World Cup. He was added to the lineup after all-rounder Hardik Pandya sustained an injury against Bangladesh.
Shami delivered a spectacular performance in his first match of the showpiece event, bagging a five-wicket haul against New Zealand. He picked up three five-wicket hauls and one four-wicket haul in the tournament.
"The stronger I return, the better it is for me" - Mohammed Shami on his comeback
Mohammed Shami has been on the sidelines since the completion of the 2023 World Cup due to injury. He underwent an Achilles tendon surgery earlier this year and has commenced training for his much-awaited comeback.
Speaking at CAB's Annual Awards, Shami mentioned that he didn't want to rush his return and wanted to ensure he was completely fit before being back. He was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo:
I am working hard to make a comeback soon because I know I have been out of action for quite some time. However, I want to ensure there is no discomfort when I return. I've to work on my fitness, so that there is no discomfort. The stronger I return, the better it is for me. I don't want to rush and risk getting injured again, be it against Bangladesh, New Zealand or the Australia series."
Mohammed Shami failed to regain full fitness ahead of India's two-match home Test series against Bangladesh. He hasn't been named in the squad for the Test series opener in Chennai, beginning Thursday, September 19.