Mohammed Shami lives ‘a dream’ at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi

Mohammed Shami with Arjuna Award. (Photo Source: Twitter/@ddsportschannel)

Star Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami, a crucial figure in India’s ODI World Cup journey, expressed his joy over receiving the esteemed Arjuna Award. Shami, presently undergoing ankle injury rehab, was honoured by President Droupadi Murmu during the National Sports Awards event.

The Arjuna Award, India’s second-highest sports accolade, acknowledges athletes for exceptional performance over the years, alongside leadership, sportsmanship, and discipline. The ceremony marked a proud moment for Shami amidst his rehabilitation, highlighting his stellar contributions and character in cricket’s grandeur.

“Cannot express this feeling. This is a dream. I keep trying because I love my job and I want to play my role as well as I can,” Shami told India Today.

The prestigious Rashtrapati Bhavan hosted a remarkable awards ceremony on Tuesday, recognising outstanding contributions in the domain of sport. The National Sports Awards 2023, unveiled by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, celebrated the excellence of individuals and institutions in their respective domains.

Shami’s unparalleled feat in World Cup

During the 2023 ODI World Cup, The India speedster sparkled, displaying sensational form that etched his name among the tournament’s standout performers. His stellar performance saw him emerge as the leading wicket-taker, claiming a remarkable 24 wickets from merely seven matches. His pivotal role escalated following Hardik Pandya’s injury against Bangladesh, propelling him into the ODI World Cup 2023 playing XI.

The maestro wasted no time in leaving his mark, immediately making a resounding impact with a remarkable five-wicket haul against New Zealand. His prowess further dazzled through with a devastating four-wicket takedown against England, followed by another five-wicket masterclass against Sri Lanka at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. Continuing his exceptional form, Shami scalped 2 crucial wickets in a commanding triumph over South Africa.

While facing the Netherlands on a placid Bengaluru track, he remained wicketless, but the semi-final encounter against New Zealand witnessed his brilliance once more, as he orchestrated a phenomenal seven-wicket haul at the Wankhede Stadium. Although his contribution was limited to a solitary wicket in the final, a match India lost to Australia, his consistent and impactful performances throughout the tournament underscored his immense value to the team’s campaign.