Bharat Arun backs Mohammed Shami, says “there is still plenty of cricket left”
Mohammed Shami: The Unyielding Fast Bowler Shaping India’s Cricket Future
As one of India’s most formidable cricket talents, Mohammed Shami continues to inspire fans and fellow players alike with his exceptional skill, relentless passion, and unwavering dedication. The Bengal-born pacer, renowned for his precision and searing pace, is currently making headlines during the 2026 Duleep Trophy season, where his performances underscore why he remains a vital asset to Indian cricket. With recent discussions surrounding his prediction for future selection and the ongoing debate over his role in the national team, Shami’s journey offers valuable insights into what it truly takes to succeed at the highest levels of cricket.
Celebrating a Milestone: Shami’s 100th First-Class Match
On the cusp of a significant milestone, Mohammed Shami is set to play his 100th first-class match as he steps onto the field for the Duleep Trophy final against South Zone at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This landmark not only highlights his longevity and consistency but also reinforces his status as one of India’s premier fast bowlers. The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) felicitated Shami ahead of the final, honoring his contributions to Indian cricket, alongside fellow players like captain Ishan Kishan and cricket administrator Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
Shami’s presence in the final is a testament to his resilience and relentless pursuit of excellence. Despite the challenges faced in recent times, his ability to perform under pressure continues to make him a prediction-worthy candidate for India’s future line-ups, especially as selectors weigh the balance between experience and emerging talent.
Inside the Mind of a Bowling Maestro: Bharat Arun’s Exclusive Insights
Unveiling Shami’s Love for Bowling
Former Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun, a respected figure in Indian cricket circles, recently shared compelling insights into Mohammed Shami’s intrinsic love for the game. Speaking exclusively to The Indian Express, Arun revealed that Shami’s passion for bowling is unmatched, whether he’s on the field, in the nets, or preparing for upcoming matches. Arun’s observations shed light on the mental and emotional dedication that has made Shami a standout performer.
“He loves bowling,” Arun states. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a red ball or a white ball, Shami’s enthusiasm remains the same. He’s always eager to mark his run-up and start bowling. Sometimes, he might show reluctance initially, but within minutes, he’s grabbing the ball, ready to bowl for 45 minutes or even an hour. That’s what makes him special—his genuine love for the craft.”
Secrets Behind Shami’s Intensity and Practice Routine
Arun’s insights go deeper, revealing the nuances of Shami’s approach to training and performance. One amusing yet revealing anecdote involves how to curb Shami’s inclination to bowl excessively in the nets. Arun explains that the only way to temporarily stop him is to hide his bowling spikes before he leaves for the ground.
“If he wears his spikes, he’s in the mood to bowl,” Arun chuckles. “He takes immense pride in his seam position and considers himself among the best in the world. The secret to managing him is simple—remove his spikes, and he’ll hold back.”
This dedication to maintaining his seam and pace highlights Shami’s unyielding pursuit of perfection. Arun emphasizes that Shami’s emotional reserve—his quiet demeanor—belies his fiery competitiveness and pride in his craft, which are crucial factors in his prediction as a future cornerstone of Indian fast bowling.
Addressing the Controversy: Is Shami Still in India’s Plans?
Despite his impressive domestic performances, questions persist about Shami’s future with the Indian national team. Arun and cricket experts believe that the doors should remain open for Shami, especially given his remarkable durability and ability to adapt. Critics like Ajit Agarkar have suggested that Shami doesn’t fit into the current red-ball strategy, favoring bowlers like Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, and Gurnoor Brar as potential replacements.
However, Arun offers a contrasting perspective, emphasizing that age and recent team selections shouldn’t diminish Shami’s prediction as a key player. “He’s still got plenty of cricket left in him,” Arun asserts. “His performances in domestic cricket prove that he remains a potent threat with the ball. His seam position, speed, and ability to make batsmen uncomfortable are skills that don’t fade overnight.”
The Value of Experience and Durability
Shami’s career exemplifies resilience. His ability to consistently perform across formats, combined with his physical endurance, makes him a valuable asset for Indian cricket’s prediction of future success. The ongoing debate underscores the importance of experience in high-pressure situations, especially in Test cricket where conditions frequently favor seasoned bowlers who can exploit seam and swing.
Shami’s Legacy and the Road Ahead
As Shami approaches his 36th year, his journey underscores the significance of perseverance and passion in sports. His passion for bowling, as Arun highlights, is what fuels his prediction as a future mainstay in Indian cricket. Despite the challenges of age and emerging talent, Shami’s performances in domestic cricket and his leadership in the dressing room serve as compelling evidence that he still has much to offer.
His upcoming milestone of 100 first-class matches is not just a number but a testament to his dedication. It signals that Indian cricket should continue to recognize and harness his skills, especially as the team looks to build a balanced and formidable pace attack for future international challenges.
Conclusion: The Enduring Spirit of Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami’s career is a shining example of what prediction in cricket truly entails—unpredictable, based on performance, resilience, and passion. As he continues to defy expectations and push the boundaries of his capabilities, the cricketing world must acknowledge that experience combined with unwavering love for the game remains a potent formula for success.
With plenty of cricket still ahead, Shami’s story remains a testament to the power of perseverance. His journey encourages young cricketers to embrace their craft passionately and reminds fans that true talent, backed by dedication, can endure the test of time.
As India looks to future international campaigns, Mohammed Shami’s prediction as a key player remains not just a possibility but a certainty—proof that sometimes, experience and love for the game are the best predictors of success in cricket’s unpredictable world.


