Mohammed Shami’s remarkable comeback in India’s playing XI during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 garnered admiration from former cricketer Harbhajan Singh. Shami, known for his impeccable seam bowling, made an impactful return, securing figures of 5/54 in his 10 overs. His performance significantly contributed to India’s effort in dismissing New Zealand for 273 in Dharamsala, ultimately leading to India’s win.
Harbhajan Singh praised Shami’s precise and intelligent bowling, describing him as a “computer” on the field. Shami’s ability to consistently pitch the ball in the right areas has established him as an invaluable asset for the Indian cricket team. Harbhajan voiced his conviction about Shami’s importance, stating, “He knows where to pitch the ball. He has done this job year after year.”
The Specialist Seamer
Harbhajan Singh firmly advocated for Shami to continue as India’s specialist seamer, even in the presence of Hardik Pandya, who provides batting prowess in the team. Harbhajan’s perspective challenges the notion that a team must compromise specialist bowlers for the sake of minor contributions in batting.
“If you have to keep a guy for two overs and a little batting, I feel it is not the right team. The team that played today was right. When Hardik Pandya comes back, he will bat at No. 6, but Shami should be at No. 8,” Harbhajan asserted.
Specialists Excel
Harbhajan Singh emphasized the significance of maintaining specialists in their respective domains. In his view, a strong team is one where the batters assume responsibility for batting, while the bowlers shoulder the duty of bowling. Harbhajan suggested that the need for someone to contribute only one or two overs would be an unusual occurrence.
He remarked, “A good team is one where the batters take the responsibility of batting, and the bowlers take the responsibility of bowling.”
Shami’s Role Going Forward
The future composition of India’s playing XI, including the retention of Mohammed Shami, will be intriguing. Shami’s impactful return and his ability to lead the fast-bowling attack make a compelling case for his inclusion, even with Hardik Pandya’s potential return as a batting all-rounder. Shardul Thakur, who had been in the playing XI, might face questions regarding his bowling fitness after an ankle injury, further strengthening Shami’s position in the team.
As India‘s campaign in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 progresses, the team management will consider various factors to ensure a balanced lineup that optimizes their chances of success.
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