Champions Trophy: Shubman Gill lauds Mohammed Shami's fifer against Bangladesh
What's the story
India started their Champions Trophy campaign with a convincing six-wicket win over Bangladesh.
The win was set up by Mohammed Shami's brilliant spell of 5/53, which earned him high praise from vice-captain Shubman Gill, and the day's unbeaten centurion.
"Whenever he comes to bowl in an ICC tournament, he doesn't take less than five wickets," Gill said in a video posted on bcci.tv, emphasizing Shami's consistent performance despite a long injury layoff.
Here's more.
Return
Shami's remarkable comeback after injury
Notably, Shami made a stunning return after a 14-month break following Achilles tendon surgery.
He became the fastest Indian bowler to reach 200 ODI wickets and also surpassed all others as India's highest wicket-taker in ICC 50-over tournaments.
"The way he has come back, I think after the injury it is not easy to make a comeback, and he is a legend," Gill lauded the veteran pacer in the video.
Viewpoint
Shami's perspective on his performance
Reflecting on his performance, Shami said, "The only difference is that I have come back from the injury. I can't see anything else."
"I have come here after 14 months of practice, and I have got the result. I am very happy, and I am enjoying the process," Shami added.
This statement highlights Shami's resilience and dedication to his sport despite physical setbacks.
Contribution
Gill's unbeaten century contributes to India's victory
As mentioned, in response to Bangladesh's 229-run target, Gill scored 101* off 129 balls, playing a pivotal role in India's victory.
His innings was laced with nine fours and two sixes as India chased down the target with six wickets and 21 balls to spare.
"It's my first century in ICC tournaments... So this is very satisfying for me," he said.
Shami lauded Gill for his performance, emphasizing how difficult it is to score a century on such a pitch.
Upcoming
India gear up for next Champions Trophy match
As India gear up for their next Champions Trophy match against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday, Shami hoped the team's good run continues.
"I just want to say one thing - the form in this ICC tournament, and of most of the players, may it continue in the same way," he said.
Shami's statement shows his faith in his teammates and their performance as they progress in the tournament.
ODI career
Shami's stellar ODI career
Shami has been India's match-winner with the ball in ODI cricket.
His impeccable seam movement with raw pace has bolstered Team India's pace attack.
The Indian pacer, in a career spanning over a decade, has taken 202 wickets from 104 ODIs at an average of 23.64, and an economy rate of 5.57.
His tally includes six fifers and 10 four-wicket hauls.
Notably, Shami made his ODI debut in January 2013, against Pakistan.