‘Hum mazdoor aadmi hain’: Mohammed Shami stays grounded despite prolonged India snub
Ace pacer Mohammed Shami, returning to his 'karm bhoomi' Eden Gardens, emphasised his 'labourer' mentality and commitment to hard work despite injuries and national team absence. He highlighted the importance of staying grounded and retaining his hunger for the game, drawing strength from his farmer roots and dedication to Bengal cricket.
NEW DELHI: Mohammed Shami kept it simple, raw and deeply personal as he returned to his ‘home’ ground, Eden Gardens, ahead of Thursday’s Lucknow Super Giants’ clash against Kolkata Knight Riders — a contest loaded with subplots for the veteran pacer. Fresh off a match-winning spell against Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he delivered a remarkable 2/9 with 18 dot balls, Shami struck a philosophical note, underlining the values that continue to drive him despite injuries and time away from the national side. “Hum mazdoor aadmi hain, humein bas ball daalni hai (we are like labourers, we just have to keep bowling),” Shami quipped, summing up his approach with disarming honesty.
Grounded in roots, driven by hunger The fast bowler reflected on his journey, insisting that staying grounded has been key to his longevity and consistency. “There will be ups and downs in life — injuries and all — but you should never forget your ground-level hard work,” he said. “If you chase too many ‘fancy things’, that becomes your weakness.
Nowadays everyone is after social media. ” Despite being overlooked for national selection, Shami has continued to deliver in domestic cricket, finishing among the top wicket-takers in the recent Ranji Trophy with 37 wickets at an average of 16. 72.
His standout 8/90 performance was instrumental in Bengal’s run to the semifinals. “I’m born into a farmer’s family and I’ve not left my roots. As a player, I still have that hunger.