In a surprising turn of events, Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has taken the cricketing world by storm with his recent batting exploits in the nets. Known primarily for his lethal bowling, Shami showcased his batting prowess at a time when Indian stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are grappling with spin bowling challenges.
SOURCE : ZEE
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, two of India’s most celebrated batsmen, have recently faced difficulties against spin bowling. Their struggles were particularly evident during the ODI series against Sri Lanka, where both players found it challenging to counter the spinners. This has raised concerns ahead of the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, where spin is expected to play a crucial role.
Source:- BBC news
Amidst these concerns, Mohammed Shami shared a video on his Instagram handle, showcasing his impressive batting skills in the nets. The video, captioned “When the bowler picks up a bat, expect the unexpected,” features Shami executing a range of shots, including flicks, drives, and even a reverse sweep. His fluent stroke play and assertive approach against the turning ball have added a new dimension to his cricketing repertoire.
While Shami is renowned for his bowling, his ability to contribute with the bat is not entirely new. His memorable unbeaten 56-run knock against England at Lord’s in 2021 remains etched in the memory of cricket fans. Shami’s recent video has reignited discussions about his potential as a lower-order batsman, capable of providing valuable runs in crucial situations.
The timing of Shami’s video is particularly noteworthy. With Rohit and Virat struggling against spin, Shami’s confident display in the nets serves as a morale booster for the team. It also highlights the importance of all-round contributions in cricket, where even bowlers can make a significant impact with the bat
Shami’s video has garnered widespread attention and praise from fans and cricketing experts alike. Former Indian cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra commented, “Shami’s batting video is a reminder that cricket is a game of surprises. His ability to adapt and perform under different circumstances is commendable”. Social media has been abuzz with reactions, with many fans expressing their excitement and admiration for Shami’s skills.
Shami’s return to the nets marks a significant milestone in his journey back to full fitness. After undergoing surgery for his Achilles tendon post the 2023 ODI World Cup, Shami has been diligently rehabilitating to regain his form. His dedication and hard work are evident in his recent performances, both with the ball and the bat.
As India prepares for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, Shami’s form and fitness will be crucial. The series, set to commence on September 19 at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, will be followed by a match at Green Park in Kanpur on September 272. Shami’s inclusion in the squad could provide the team with a much-needed boost, especially given the recent struggles against spin.
Mohammed Shami’s unexpected batting display in the nets has added an exciting twist to India’s cricketing narrative. At a time when Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are working to overcome their challenges against spin, Shami’s confident and skillful performance serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. As the team gears up for the Test series against Bangladesh, fans and experts alike will be eagerly watching to see how Shami’s all-round abilities contribute to India’s success.
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