While the Indian cricket team was left heartbroken after losing both the World Test Championship and the World Cup to Australia, one player really had a worthwhile time with the game. With an outstanding World Cup campaign, where he took 24 wickets in just seven games, Mohammed Shami won the semi-finals versus New Zealand with figures of 7/57. Shami also holds the record for the most wickets by an Indian in World Cups with 55 in 18 games.
It was Mohammad Shami as a result of which Team India finally waded it's way to the Finals. Unfortunately, India lost the ODI Tournament but Shami still won the hearts of many cricket fans.
While Shami may not have been able to lift the trophy after giving everything on the pitch, the Arjuna Award was still pending recognition to one of India’s finest cricketers.
President Droupadi Murmu handed the fast bowler his award and Shami proudly took to Instagram to share his achievement thanking his teammates, family, and fans for their support throughout his career. Virat Kohli congratulated Shami with a comment saying “Mubarak ho lala".
Shami, who is currently recovering from an ankle injury, received the honours amid the huge applause from the crowd who acknowledged his achievements by giving him and his art the pride of place with a standing ovation.
The veteran pacer, a day prior to the ceremony, expressed happiness for the coveted accolade and said even after many years of hard work, people are not able to win this award.
"This award is a dream; life passes and people are not able to win this award. I am happy that I have been nominated for this award. It is like a dream for me to get this award because my whole life I have seen many people receiving this award," said the great player.
"My rehabilitation is well on track and the medical experts at NCA are happy with my progress. There is slight stiffness in my ankle but that's fine. I have started my training sessions and I believe I will be able to make a comeback in the England series. I am targeting the series for my return," the 33-year-old said.
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Reference:
- telegraphindia.com
- timesofindia.indiatimes.com