Mohammed Shami, India’s star pacer who had troubled the English batsmen with his pace, accuracy and the ability to move the ball consistently described his relationship with MS Dhoni as a “father-son” relationship in a recent interview.
Shami, whose England series had been cut short due to an injury, is currently recovering from the same in Bengaluru and would be hoping to get back into action as soon as possible.
Shami, when asked about how he settled down in the team was quoted saying, “I remember the first time I walked into this team. It’s a ritual that whoever makes it to the Indian team for the first time has to make a speech. I was a little nervous. Most cricketers have a very active social life and mine was completely different, coming from where I do. I remember walking up and saying something to the effect that ‘I can’t speak in English so it’ll have to be in Hindi’. And the guys were like “toh isme kya baat hai”. That whole feeling of being accepted so immediately was amazing. As far as MS (Dhoni) is concerned, it’s like a father-son relationship. What more can I say. ”
Shami also spoke about his biggest discomfort and it was not the injuries that he mentioned.
“Bearing pain is the easier part. What I can’t bear easily is the whole idea of having to stay away from the action, away from my family, away from my team-mates, staying alone in hotels, recovering from an injury and waiting to get back.”
The Bengal pacer apart from cricket gives a lot of importance to his diet and sleep which helps him perform at the top of his ability every time he steps onto the field.
“It’s part of the game. You have to try and do your part of the job well. Outside of cricket, diet and sleep are what matter most to me. When I go to my village in Uttar Pradesh and my mum gives me my favourite dishes, I have to say no. It took me time, but finally, I’ve developed the mental strength to not look at the food.”