India’s veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami has revealed how he tries to remain positive despite being on the bench in the ongoing ODI showpiece. In the absence of injured Hardik Pandya, Shami made his World Cup 2023 debut against New Zealand at the Himachal Pradesh Association Stadium, Dharamshala on Sunday.
Shami returned with his best World Cup figures of 5-54 in his quota of 10 overs and played a key role in skittling out the Kiwis at 273 after Rohit Sharma decided to field first. The right-arm pacer accounted for Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, and Will Young in his fine spell of bowling.
The fast bowler has all the experience under his belt and he was able to prove his worth against the Blackcaps.
“Personally, I keep my outlook as – you keep enjoying because, in India, the biggest sport is cricket. The biggest place is the one where you are sitting. It’s not necessary to be there [in playing XI]. You have 15 players. Four of them have to stay out. So, by being positive and enjoying, I feel you will get more results,” Mohammed Shami said in the post-match press conference.
“So, I always say to myself, if I am not here today, I will be here tomorrow. If not tomorrow, then day after tomorrow. They [chances] do come in rotation. And when your time comes, you contribute for the team. I am happy for the ones who are performing now and that’s it,” the fast bowler added.
Shami said the players enjoy each other’s success and he tries to be ready for his opportunity in the playing XI.
“I was watching everything from the bench. My mindset is to do something when I am given the chance. But yes, it is very important. When you are not playing, it is very difficult. But if your team is performing, your boys are moving in a rhythm, then I don’t think you should feel guilty sitting outside,” he said.
“You are also a part of the team and a part of the World Cup. I think everyone should enjoy each other’s success,” the pacer concluded.
India will next take on reigning champions England at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow on Sunday.
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