Mohammed Shami shines with five-wicket haul in Champions Trophy

India’s pace ace returns from injury with match-winning spell against Bangladesh.

India's Mohammed Shami catches the ball to dismiss Bangladesh's Towhid Hridoy during the ICC Champions Trophy ODI match between Bangladesh and India at Dubai International Stadium in Dubai, on February 20, 2025. Photo by Jewel Samad/AFP

By Randy Ahmad and Yuni Utomo

Mohammed Shami made a triumphant return to international cricket, claiming 5-53 to propel India to a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their Champions Trophy opener in Dubai. The veteran pacer, who had been sidelined by a career-threatening injury, showcased his skill and determination in his first major tournament since the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Shami’s performance was even more crucial given the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, India’s premier fast bowler, who was ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury. The 34-year-old stepped up to lead India’s pace attack, reaffirming his reputation as a key player in high-stakes tournaments.

A comeback from adversity

Shami’s return to the international stage has been a long and arduous journey. After playing a pivotal role in India’s 2023 ODI World Cup campaign—where he finished as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 24 scalps in just seven matches—his career was derailed by a series of injuries. Ankle, heel, and knee issues kept him out of action, delaying his recovery and forcing him to miss crucial series, including India’s recent 3-1 Test defeat in Australia.

"It was difficult to get injured and go down from the form that you had in the World Cup," Shami told reporters after his stellar performance against Bangladesh. "Those 14 months were very difficult as I had to repeat all the things and that pinches you and you feel the pain. But I got those domestic matches and four international games (against England) to get my confidence back."

Shami acknowledged the frustration of watching from the sidelines while his teammates battled without him. "You always miss your bowling unit and the ones you're usually with," he said. "You always think, ‘I wish I could contribute as well.’ You miss that when you're injured and can't do anything apart from watching games, ball by ball."

Shami’s ability to deliver in ICC tournaments remains unmatched. With his latest five-wicket haul, he surpassed former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan to become the country’s leading wicket-taker in ICC ODI tournaments, with 60 scalps to his name. Zaheer had previously held the record with 59 wickets.

"I always try, especially in ICC events, that even if I leak plenty of runs, I should at least get some wickets," Shami said. His aggressive wicket-taking approach has made him a vital asset in India's major tournament campaigns.

Shami’s presence was sorely missed in India’s recent overseas challenges, particularly in Australia, where Bumrah often found himself lacking a reliable partner in the pace attack. His return to form, especially in a high-pressure tournament, bodes well for India’s title aspirations.

Facing past demons in Dubai

Dubai holds a complicated history for Shami. In 2021, after India’s loss to Pakistan in the T20 World Cup, the fast bowler was subjected to vitriolic social media abuse, with some attacks targeting him based on his religion. The incident prompted strong support from then-captain Virat Kohli and former cricketers, who condemned the online hate.

Reflecting on the past, Shami remained unfazed. "Social media is such these days that it can lead to some unwanted things in your mind," he said. "I don't like to think about such things. People will remind you about poor performances, and it will pinch you too, but I feel as a cricketer and sportsman one shouldn't look back too much. Just stay in the present and plan for the future."

His resurgence in Dubai is a testament to his resilience, proving that he remains one of India’s most reliable match-winners.

Shami and India now turn their focus to the highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday. The match, one of the most-watched fixtures in international cricket, will be a test of India’s bowling depth and Shami’s ability to maintain his red-hot form.

With India’s pace attack already under pressure due to Bumrah’s absence, Shami’s role will be even more crucial as they aim to extend their dominance over Pakistan in ICC tournaments. If his performance against Bangladesh is any indication, the veteran pacer is more than ready for the challenge.