If Mohammed Shami is Ustad, India’s master of full-ball and seam speed bowling, Mohammed Siraj is its Shagird, the prodigy. The protégé has so far been in the limelight in his four ODIs for 2023, but the champion showed his artistry at its best on Saturday, with Siraj playing a perfect supporting role.
The duo’s deadly opening spell was dominated by Shami’s literally unplayable delivery, spelling their downfall in New Zealand’s top order. For $108, we’ve bundled Kiwis to make Raipur’s first international match even more memorable.
Despite being the Indian unit’s longest-serving pacesetter, Shami downplayed questions about his evolving role on the team, especially in the absence of Jasprit Bhamra. But in an era where workload management dominates, he stressed that game time is a top priority.
“I always prefer playing matches to training. It’s always good to be in as many matches as possible to prepare for a big event,” Shami said after his second visit to India. He said after being named the best player in the ODI vs New Zealand game. “The cargo is under control and well managed. I hope the key players stay in the good zone [before the World Cup].”
He brushed off his question about his role, but it’s clear from his on-pitch demeanor that Shami played his senior role perfectly. He was always on the ear of young Pacers during his Nets years, including Siraj, Shahdur Thakur and Umran Malik.
“I talk to my bowlers all the time. I know that sometimes someone tries hard and doesn’t get the results they want. That’s my favorite role to play when I’m bowling,” he said.
With the team heading to Indore on Sunday afternoon for the final ODI on Tuesday, India may be tempted to give Shami a break and Umran a game. Rest assured that even when he’s not on the field, Shami is doing his part to help another young man.