{
  "id": 18661187,
  "title": "Mohammed Shami: Virat Kohli’s go-to man at home and a second innings specialist",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/07/mohammed-shami-virat-kohlis-go-to-man-at-home-and-a-second-innings",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-07T07:27:51.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Indian Express",
    "slug": "the-indian-express",
    "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/mohammed-shami-home-test-strike-force-second-innings-specialist-10954480/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Mohammad Shami, India's premier fast bowler, was once an integral part of the team during Virat Kohli's captaincy. Shami, known for his lethal seam attack, was particularly effective in the second innings of Test matches, making him a go-to man for the team. His stats speak for themselves, with 153 away wickets and a strike rate of 54.0, outperforming his Indian counterparts.\n\nDespite his exceptional form, Shami retired from Test cricket at the age of 36, leaving behind a legacy of 64 Tests and 229 wickets. His impressive home record, with 21 consecutive Test wins without a defeat, further solidified his status as a second innings specialist. Shami's unique blend of seam and contrast swing made him a formidable opponent, both in his home country and abroad.\n\nShami's impact extended beyond his bowling, as he was a key player during India's Test dominance under Kohli's captaincy. His 47.7 strike rate and 173 wickets in away conditions were a testament to his prowess. Though his knees may have slowed him down slightly, Shami's final appearance for Bengal showcased his resilience and ability to still deliver, taking four wickets in his last Test match.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [
    "Mohammed Shami was India's premier fast bowler and Virat Kohli's go-to man in home Test matches.",
    "Shami retired at 36 with 64 Tests and 229 wickets, including 21 consecutive Test wins at home.",
    "Known for seam and contrast swing, Shami had 47.7 strike rate and 173 away wickets."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Shami’s ability to master second innings conditions and away wickets established him as a vital tactical asset that underpinned India’s period of Test dominance under Virat Kohli’s leadership.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}