Senior pacer Mohammad Shami is all set to make his much-awaited India comeback in the upcoming five-match T20I series against England, starting January 22 in Kolkata.
Shami has not played for India since his appearance in the 2023 World Cup final. He underwent an operation on his Achilles tendon in February last year, and made his return to competitive action through the first phase of Ranji Trophy and the subsequent Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for Bengal.
The right-arm quick recently plied his trade in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (domestic 50-over tournament). However, he missed out on the tour of Australia due to swelling in his knee.
The England series, featuring three ODIs too, will provide Shami with an ideal preparation ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025, slated to be held in Pakistan and UAE from February 19 to March 9.
"Country ke liye jo khelne ki bhoonkh hai woh kabhi khatam nahin honi chahiye. Aapko agar usse pyar hai toh aap hamesha fightback karte rahenge, injured chahe aap 10 baar ho jaye (The first thing I feel is that the hunger to play for the country should never end," Shami said at an event organised by Cricket Association of Bengal.
"If you have that hunger, you will always fight back, no matter how many times you get injured. Mere dimaag mein hamesha yehi rehta hai mein kitna bhi match khel loon woh mere liye kam hai, kyunke ek baar agar meine cricket chhod toh shayad woh dobara na hoga (No matter how many matches I play, it always feels like less. Because once I leave cricket, I may never get this chance again)," he added.
Shami believes sportspersons can overcome multiple injury setbacks as long as they have a hunger to represent the country.
"It has never happened that players who represent their state or country think about leaving the game after an injury. Whenever we get injured, the only thought in our mind is -- when can we return?" he remarked.
Shami, who missed the IPL, T20 World Cup and Border-Gavaskar Trophy due to injury, stressed that overcoming injuries is a part of an athlete's journey.
"If you are hardworking and committed, no injury can keep you away for too long. You will always find a way to return."
Talking about his special bond with the Eden Gardens, Shami said, "The home ground is always special. I started my career here. I've said earlier as well -- though I was born and brought up in Uttar Pradesh, I was made by Bengal. This is my home, my life."
Sharing the stage with cricket legends such as Sourav Ganguly, Mithali Raj and Jhulan Goswami, Shami expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunities earned through sheer dedication.
"I have only done one thing -- fulfilled my responsibilities with loyalty. And I hope you all carry the same loyalty and one day play for India. Because once you get that chance, you won't experience a better feeling than representing your country."
