Here is what Sheldon Cottrell said about Shami's celebration
Windies succumbed to a heavy 125-run defeat against two-time champions India in the ICC World Cup 2019 on Thursday. This brought the former's campaign to close. As the Indian players put up a dominating performance, a controversy erupted when Mohammed Shami mocked pacer Sheldon Cottrell's iconic salute. Fans took to social media to bash Shami, but Cottrell gave the best response.
Shami mocks Cottrell's iconic celebration following his dismissal
It all happened in the 30th over when Chahal trapped Cottrell leg-before for only 10. Following the dismissal, Shami, who was fielding within the 30-yard circle, came to congratulate Chahal, as he gave a salute to Cottrell, mocking the latter's celebration.
Shami claims second four-wicket haul in World Cup 2019
Shami once again came up with a flawless performance as he claimed 4/16 to end the hopes of Windies. This was also his second four-wicket haul in consecutive matches. The previous match against Afghanistan saw him claiming 4/40, including a hat-trick. He had become the second Indian to script a hat-trick in the history of the tournament.
Cottrell gives an awesome reply in Hindi
Displaying sportsmanship, Cottrell didn't get offended by the celebration of Shami. Instead of retaliating, he took to Twitter to poke fun, saying that the former had great fun in the match against India. He also stated in Hindi, "Nakal Karna Hi Sabse Badi Chaploosi Hai (mockery is the best form of flattery)." This earned Cottrell huge praise from his fans.
Cottrell gives an epic response
Few blast Shami, we feel it is not an issue
Following the incident, there was an uproar on social media that Shami had disrespected the Caribbean Army. It should be noted that Cottrell is a Jamaican Defence Force soldier, and he is well known for his celebration. We believe that Shami meant no disrespect to anyone and it should be taken in jest, rather than making a serious issue out of it.
