This is how Mohammed Shami battled off-field issues
Indian premier pace bowler, Mohammed Shami, was embroiled with off-field controversies post the Test series against South Africa. This, in turn, affected his confidence as the player disappointed in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. He also went on to fail the Yo-Yo test prior to the one-off Test against Afghanistan. Shami, who made a return against England in Tests, talked about his battles.
What helped Shami fight back?
Shami was accused by wife, Hasin Jahan, back in March of numerous things that ranged from domestic violence, extra-marital affair, match-fixing and age fudging as well. His fitness was also questioned after he failed the endurance test at the NCA in Bengaluru in June. But Shami is back and he said that his love for cricket was the reason that helped him battle issues.
Shami kept doing what he loves most
At end of Day One at Edgbaston, Shami said this in the press conference. "I had to fight a lot in between but my effort was that I have to keep doing what I love most and what is most important to me (cricket)."
Shami back to his best
Shami picked up the good work in Tests, from where he left off in South Africa. He had picked 15 scalps against the Proteas in the three-match series and ended as India's highest wicket-taker. Against England in the 1st Test, he was exceptional and picked two scalps on Day One that included the key wicket of Keaton Jennings. He ended with figures of 3/64.
Shami is Kohli's best asset in pace
Shami looks fit and sharp and will be Virat Kohli's main asset in pace for the remainder of the series. If he can put in a shift, then India are surely to get something positive out of the England series.
