Kolkata: Mohammed Shami has delivered a powerful and grounded message amid ongoing debates over his absence from the Indian national team, saying, “Hum mazdoor aadmi hain, humein bas ball daalni hai” (we are like labourers, we just have to keep bowling).
The veteran pacer, currently featuring for Lucknow Super Giants, made the remark ahead of their clash against Kolkata Knight Riders at the iconic Eden Gardens.
Home advantage at Eden Gardens
Shami, who has spent a significant part of his domestic career with Bengal, acknowledged the advantage of playing at a familiar venue.
“You always have that home advantage playing at Eden Gardens. You understand the pitch and conditions better,” he said, hinting that his local knowledge could be a key factor against KKR.
Strong comeback after injury
The pacer recently delivered a match-winning spell against Sunrisers Hyderabad, returning remarkable figures of 2/9 with 18 dot balls, helping his team secure their first win of the season.
Despite such performances, Shami has remained out of national selection, even after an impressive domestic run:
- 37 wickets in the Ranji Trophy
- Average of 16.72
- performance of 8/90 in a key match
“Focus on hard work, not hype”
Addressing the growing obsession with fame and social media, Shami emphasised staying grounded.
“There will be ups and downs—injuries and all—but you should never forget your hard work. If you chase too many fancy things, that becomes your weakness,” he said.
His candid remarks underline a philosophy rooted in discipline rather than distractions.
Deep bond with Bengal
Shami also spoke emotionally about his connection with Bengal, calling it his “karm bhoomi” (place of work and growth), despite being born in Uttar Pradesh.
He reiterated his commitment to domestic cricket and his desire to continue representing Bengal as long as he remains fit and motivated.
What it means for selection
Shami’s consistent performances and strong mindset keep him firmly in contention for a national comeback. However, selection dynamics remain uncertain amid team combinations and fitness considerations.
Conclusion
In an era dominated by headlines and hype, Mohammed Shami’s words stand out for their simplicity and honesty. His focus remains unchanged—put in the work, stay grounded, and let performances speak.