India fast bowler Mohammed Shami has emerged as a pivotal player in the country's impressive journey to the final of the ODI World Cup 2023.
With an unbeaten record of 10 victories in the tournament, India secured a spot in the final by defeating New Zealand by 70 runs in the semi-finals, largely thanks to Shami's outstanding performance. In that crucial match, Shami showcased his prowess by taking an astounding seven wickets, elevating his total wicket count to 23 in the World Cup 2023.
Behind Shami's remarkable success lies not only his personal dedication but also the significant contribution of his coach, Badruddin.
During his formative years at the age of 13-14, Shami diligently attended training sessions under Coach Badruddin's guidance at the Sonakpur Stadium in Moradabad, located 25 kilometres from Amroha. It was at this training ground that Shami's talent flourished, propelling him to become a world-class bowler and a key player in India's pursuit of World Cup glory.
In conversation with Aaj Tak, Badruddin said, "Shami's father had brought him to Sonakpur Stadium in 2002. His father said that he had created a stir with his bowling in Amroha. I made Shami warm up and made him bowl for about 30 minutes. There was no difference between the ball he had bowled in the first minute of the game and the ball he had bowled in the 30th minute. He bowled the ball in the 30th minute with the same zeal as when he had bowled the first ball. From then on, his passion was known."
"He practised for a month after that when he was 16 years old, we got him an Under-19 trial where he bowled brilliantly but in the last round, he was out and could not be selected. After this, Shami became very sad. We told him that you have come here for the first time and you will go ahead and work hard."
Shami's coach added that before this he did not play anywhere, he used to play cricket only in his village. His professional career started at Sonakpur Stadium. "Every time he used to come to the stadium before me. In the heat of June, he used to keep speaking even though he was drenched in sweat. Many times we used to get worried and say that he was a crazy fool. There was a lot of passion due to which he has been able to progress so far today."
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