‘If you can move my chair, he will be selected’ – Mohammed Shami recalls horrible Ranji selection trials experience

Mohammed Shami showcased his prowess, securing an impressive 24 wickets in the recently concluded World Cup 2023. A stalwart in the Indian squad, his journey wasn’t without testing trials. Reflecting on his past, Shami revealed the arduous struggle vying for a Ranji position with Uttar Pradesh. Shami recently disclosed the hardships encountered during those early days, highlighting the demanding path to securing his spot.

Shami’s journey to becoming a frontline Indian pacer was marked by hurdles, from battling selection woes in Uttar Pradesh to enduring the loss of his father in 2017. Born in Sahaspur, UP, he relocated to West Bengal following a challenging episode during the Ranji trials. These tribulations, both professional and personal, shaped his resilient path, ultimately cementing his stature as a premier force in Indian cricket.

“I had gone to give trials for the UP Ranji Trophy team for 2 years, but whenever the final round came, they used to kick me out. When I was not selected after the trials in the first year, I thought it doesn’t matter. Will come again next time, but next year the same thing happened again,” the 33-year-old recalled in an interview with Puma.

“When I went again the next year, the same thing happened, 1600 boys were there and the trials were going to last for 3 days. Brother said, I am not able to understand anything. A fair is going on here. Brother talked to the selection head. Brother got such an answer from him which he had never imagined in his life. The selector told brother that if you can move my chair, then the boy will be selected. It’s very good. Otherwise, sorry,” Shami added.

Mohammed Shami proves worth at ODI World Cup

Initially sidelined, the right-arm pacer’s entry into the World Cup XI came due to Hardik Pandya’s injury. Making the most of his chance, he soared, claiming an astounding 24 wickets across seven matches. Despite his remarkable performance, India’s journey culminated in dismay, as they succumbed to a six-wicket loss to Australia in the final, marking the end of both Shami’s and India’s pursuit for World Cup glory.

The Uttar Pradesh pacer now holds the record for the most five-wicket hauls in Cricket World Cup history He is also the quickest bowler ever to reach a 50-wicket milestone in World Cup history. With 55 wickets in 18 matches, Shami’s prowess is undeniable. His stellar 7/57 performance against New Zealand in the Mumbai semi-final stands as the finest figures by an Indian ODI bowler.