Mohammed Shami emerged as a standout performer for India in the 2023 World Cup after being ignored for the first four matches.
His exceptional performance earned him the title of the highest wicket-taker with 24 scalps to his name.
However, despite Shami's heroics, India fell short in the final against Australia. Following the loss, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a surprise visit to the dressing room to console the dejected players. In a viral video, PM Modi hugged Shami and congratulated him on his stellar performance.
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In an interview with Aaj Tak, Shami revealed that the players were not prepared for the PM's unexpected visit, providing insights into the team's emotional state post the defeat. He expressed that PM Modi's presence served as a surprise and helped uplift the team's spirits, encouraging them to move on from the loss.
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What did Mohammad Shami say?
Speaking on Agenda AajTak, Shami said,
We were heartbroken after the loss and were sitting dejectedly. It was like our hard work of two months got negated due to just one match. It was our bad day and we were dejected but when the PM enters, you have to keep your head high. We were not even told that Modiji was coming there and suddenly he entered. Earlier, we were not even in the mood to eat and talk to each other but when he came, it was such a big surprise for us.
#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Team India in their dressing room after the ICC World Cup Finals at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on 19th November.
— ANI (@ANI) November 21, 2023
The PM spoke to the players and encouraged them for their performance throughout the tournament.
(Video:… pic.twitter.com/ZqYIakoIIj
He added,
We got shocked when he entered the room. He then came and spoke to all of us. And it was actually after that moment that we started talking to each other. We talked and said that we need to move on from this loss. So, PM Modi's visit helped us a lot.
Modi later posted on X: "Dear Team India, Your talent and determination through the World Cup was noteworthy. You've played with great spirit and brought immense pride to the nation. We stand with you today and always."
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What next for Mohammed Shami?
Shami, who is currently under medical supervision, is anticipated to join the Indian cricket team for the Test series in South Africa starting on December 26.
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