Former Indian team bowling coach Bharat Arun shared a special message for Mohammad Shami, saying he is looking to rattle New Zealand’s hopes of making it to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final.
Notably, Team India is playing in the first semifinal of the ongoing Cricket World Cup 2023 against the Black Caps at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on November 15.
Well, Arun played a key role in Shami’s turnaround in career, helping him overcome personal challenges, fitness issues, and a dip in form. This transformation turned Shami from an ordinary Indian fast bowler into a crucial pace leader.
Even the star pacer was about to give up on his cricketing career, but it was Arun and former head coach Ravi Shastri who helped him bring his career onto the right track.
However, a rehab stint at the NCA focusing on his fitness did wonders for Shami, as he emerged as a completely different bowler.
Bharat Arun wrote in his column for ESPNCricinfo: “I remember Mohammad Shami saying once, 'I need to run in like a horse to be successful'. All this World Cup, Shami has been running in - galloping, you could say - fluently, with an amazing rhythm that complements his bowling skills.”
The former bowling coach further added, “Fast bowling is all about a feeling inside that drives the bowler to run in with rhythm and confidence, which in turn enable him to pull off special feats. Shami is being driven by that feeling now.
With the kind of momentum, he builds in his run-up, and his smooth, repetitive action, he has been able to pitch the ball like he is skimming a flat stone on water, skidding through batters' defences”
Finally, Arun shared his message for Shami, who is in stunning form at CWC 2023, taking 16 wickets in just 5 games for Team India. Notably, the hosts have won all 9 league games in the tournament.
He signed off by saying, “I haven't spoken to Shami this World Cup, but I can see him totally enjoying his bowling. The only message I have for him is: Shami, tu ekdum ghode ki tarah bhaag raha hain jiss tarah se tu bowling kar raha hai. [You are running in like a horse.] Just go and enjoy yourself.”
Notably, India won the toss and decided to bat first in the CWC 2023 semifinal against New Zealand.
(With ESPNCricinfo Inputs)
