Mohammed Shami has left an indelible mark on Indian cricket, showcasing not just skill and resilience but also embarking on a remarkable journey. His outstanding display in the 2023 ODI World Cup earned him the esteemed Arjuna Award, a fitting recognition for his stellar performance.
The national sports awards were presented to India’s top athletes in a grand event at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Tuesday by President Droupadi Murmu. The illustrious Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami, who was feted for his outstanding performance in the 2023 One-Day International World Cup, was among the recipients of honors in the Durbar Hall. After sitting out the first four games, Shami became the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 24 scalps, including three incredible five-wicket hauls—a record in a single 50-over ICC event. His introduction changed the game.
Mohammed Shami’s legacy in Indian cricket is a tapestry stitched with skill, resilience, and an astonishing journey. Making his international debut in 2013, the fast bowler from Uttar Pradesh soon became a significant component for the Indian side. Shami’s ability to swing the ball both ways and his steady speed regularly challenged batters worldwide. His remarkable performances, defined by key wickets at pivotal moments, played a pivotal influence in India’s successes.
Capping off the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 on a successful note, Indian bowler Mohammed Shami emerged as the tournament’s top wicket-taker. Across seven matches, Shami demonstrated great bowling skills, clinching an impressive total of 24 wickets. His superb average of 10.70 and a surprisingly effective strike rate of 12.20 emphasized his profound performances. Shami’s impressive performance featured a stunning showing with his best number of 7/57. His steady and devastating bowling played a significant part in India’s campaign, establishing his status as a strong force in international cricket.
In a tweet, Mohammed Shami expressed his immense pride for receiving the esteemed Arjuna Award from the President. He extended gratitude to those who supported him through highs and lows, acknowledging his coach, BCCI, teammates, family, staff, and fans. Shami emphasized his commitment to always give his best to make his country proud.
He wrote on X: “Today I am feeling very proud that I have been honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award by the President. I want to thank all those people who have helped me a lot to reach here and have always supported me in my ups and downs… thanks to My Coach, BCCI,team mates,my family, staff and big thanks to my fans..Thanks to recognise my hard work..I will always try to give my best to make my country proud… Again thanks to everyone.. Congratulations to others arjun award winners.”
Shami, who is in the process of recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the World Cup, was present to accept the prestigious award. The audience warmly acknowledged his achievements with a round of applause. This recognition makes Shami the 58th Indian cricketer, whether male or female, to receive the esteemed Arjuna Award. This list includes legendary names such as Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Mithali Raj, Jhulan Goswami, and Virat Kohli.
