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The echoes of the ODI World Cup 2023 are still resonating in the cricketing world, and so are the controversies surrounding it. The Indian cricket team, despite an outstanding performance, fell short in the final against Australia, securing the runner-up position. Amidst the celebration and disappointment, star pacer Mohammed Shami found himself at the centre of controversy, with allegations and conspiracy theories emanating from across the border.
Mohammed Shami’s stellar performance
Throughout the tournament, India’s journey to the final was marked by an unbeaten streak, and one of the pivotal contributors to this success was Shami. Despite missing the initial matches, the Uttar Pradesh-born cricketer left an indelible mark, finishing as the highest wicket-taker in the tournament with 24 wickets in seven games. His stellar performances on the field drew admiration but also sparked controversy, particularly from Pakistani ex-cricketers who accused the Indian team of using a tampered ball and receiving undue favour from the ICC.
Shami’s initial response to accusations
In response to the allegations, Shami initially took to social media to share his side of the story, vehemently denying any wrongdoing and hitting back at the trolls. However, the controversy did not dissipate, and it seems Shami was not done addressing the issue.
The podcast revelation
Recently, Shami indulged in a podcast with PUMA, where he was asked about the same controversial remarks and conspiracy theories surrounding the ODI World Cup. Known for his straightforward and no-nonsense demeanour, Shami didn’t mince his words. He unleashed a blistering response, slamming the Pakistani cricketers for their remarks.
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Shami fires verbal salvo towards Pakistan cricketers
In the podcast, Shami expressed his disbelief at the accusations coming from Pakistani cricketers. He asserted that some players from across the border couldn’t digest the success of others and harboured a belief that they were the best. The right-arm pacer, who played a crucial role in India’s campaign, highlighted the absurdity of the accusations, given his delayed entry into the tournament.
“I know I can be bitter while speaking the truth, but if I don’t open my mouth after all this, then it won’t be right. I’m not jealous of anybody. If you start enjoying the success of others, then you can become a better player,” stated Shami.
Addressing the specific allegations, Shami further pointed out that when he started playing in the World Cup, he consistently took wickets. He then addressed the Pakistani players directly, urging them to introspect and improve.
“I was not playing at the beginning (of the World Cup). Jab khel raha that World Cup, toh 5 wickets liye, 4 wickets aur fir se 5 wickets liye. Kuch Pakistan ke players ko ye baat hajam nahi ho rahi toh main kya karu. Kyuki unke dimaag mein ye hai ki ham best hai. Bhai best woh hota hai jo time per perform kare….aap usme controversy banaya chale ja rahe ho, ki tumhe ball kuch aur colour ki mil rahi hai..kisi aur company ki mil rahi hai….Sudhar jao yaar. (When I started playing, I picked up five wickets then got four and then another five-for. Some Pakistani players couldn’t digest it. They think they are the best. The one who performs at the right time is the best. You are creating controversy for no reason. You are saying we are getting different balls from different companies and all that. Learn your lesson),” the pacer emphasized.
