In a recent interview on Shubhankar Mishra’s YouTube podcast, Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami opened up about an intense moment with teammate Hardik Pandya during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 match. Playing for the Gujarat Titans, Shami recalled how Pandya screamed at him during the game.

Mohammed Shami reflects on the on-field incident with Hardik Pandya

Shami explained that he usually doesn’t respond to such outbursts. “I usually don’t respond to such things, but when things get too bad, I speak up,” the right-arm pacer said.

Despite the incident, Shami highlighted the strong bond he shares with Pandya. “We have a good connection and are good friends; he did not realise it then. We have known each other for almost ten years now.”

After the confrontation, Pandya expressed regret and said, “I swear I don’t know what I have said.”

Shami’s comments also reflected on cricketers’ broader responsibility to manage their emotions. “Crores of people watch us on screen; we need to control our emotions.”

Also READ: Mohammed Shami blasts Inzamam-ul-Haq over his ball-tampering comment on Arshdeep Singh

Shami’s outstanding World Cup performance followed by an injury

Shami’s leadership and skill were pivotal for the Gujarat Titans during the IPL 2022 season, where he emerged as the team’s leading wicket-taker with 20 wickets. His outstanding performance contributed significantly to the team’s success and showcased his prowess as a top-tier bowler.

Shami’s dominance extended beyond the IPL. In the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023, held in November, he led the wicket-taking charts, claiming 24 scalps in just seven matches with an economy rate of 5.26. His exceptional performance left fans excited about his prospects and solidified his reputation as one of the premier bowlers in international cricket.

Unfortunately, Shami has been sidelined since the ODI World Cup 2023 due to an ankle injury he sustained during the tournament.

Also READ: Mohammed Shami responds to wedding rumours with Sania Mirza