Ravi Shastri on Shami: ‘What more do you want him to prove?’

Former India coach Ravi Shastri believes that Mohammed Shami could have continued his Test career with another 30-40 wickets to his name. Shami played his final Test match for India in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval, ending a 13-year career with 64 Tests and 229 wickets. Shastri criticized reports suggesting Shami was unfit, stating that he had been bowling extensively for Bengal and even contributing to the Duleep Trophy.

The coach expressed disappointment that Shami did not get another year, suggesting he had more to offer. Shastri also highlighted that legendary cricketers like Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar never used the gym due to their relentless performances on the pitch. He praised Shami's role as a catalyst for India's fast bowling unit, noting his exceptional ability to present the seam and keep the opposition on their toes.