Virat Kohli: The Heart of Team Spirit
Virat Kohli, a prominent figure in cricket, is celebrated not only for his exceptional skills on the field but also for his ability to uplift team morale with humor and playful antics. One of his notable contributions to the team’s camaraderie is coining nicknames for teammates, including that of fast bowler Mohammed Shami.
Shami recently marked his 34th birthday and is currently undergoing rehabilitation after surgery to address an ankle injury. He is steadily progressing towards a return to international cricket.
In celebration of Shami’s special day, Star Sports released a lively video on social media featuring the talented pacer engaging in a rapid-fire question-and-answer session.
Nickname Origins
When asked about how he got his nickname, Shami shared that he is affectionately called ‘lala’ by his teammates. This moniker was initiated by Virat Kohli since everyone else had their own nicknames while Shami was left out initially.
Jersey Number Significance
Regarding his jersey number, which is 11, Shami expressed a fondness for it. He mentioned that many significant aspects of his life seem to revolve around this number.
Admired Fast Bowlers
Shami has great admiration for several fast bowlers from around the world. When prompted about who inspires him most in this regard, he specifically named Waqar Younis and Dale Steyn as two players he looks up to greatly.
Challenging Batsmen
Currently, one batsman who poses an intriguing challenge for him on the field is Joe Root. According to Shami, Root’s ability to play shots all around the wicket makes him particularly enjoyable—and difficult—to bowl against.
A Memorable Career Moment
Reflecting on pivotal moments in his career, Shami recalled joining the ODI team as particularly unforgettable. He described a tradition where newcomers would stand on chairs or stools and deliver speeches during their first meeting with established players. Overwhelmed by being surrounded by some of cricket’s finest talents—both batsmen and bowlers—he found himself at a loss for words during that momentous occasion—a memory that continues to resonate with him today.
As Mohammed Shami continues along his path toward recovery and eventual return to competitive play, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing more memorable performances from this dedicated athlete who embodies both skill and spirit within Indian cricket.
Intern at SMK University
