CHENNAI: Mohammed Shami has not played for India since March 2025 and his last Test appearance came more than three years ago, but the veteran pacer insists his motivation has not dipped. At 36, Shami says he remains driven to push himself towards the “next level” of his career.Shami marked his 100th first-class appearance on Thursday with a Duleep Trophy triumph, as East Zone defeated South Zone on the basis of a first-innings lead. The veteran fast bowler played his part in the title clash, taking two important wickets as South Zone were bowled out for 336.His landmark appearance and East Zone’s title win offered Shami a moment of satisfaction, but his focus remained firmly on continuing to compete and improve despite being away from the international setup for more than a year.
‘There are plenty of reasons to stay motivated’
Shami’s last appearance for India came in March 2025, while he has not featured in Test cricket since the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023.Despite the long international absence, the fast bowler said motivation is a personal responsibility and that he continues to set himself new targets.“There are plenty of reasons to stay motivated if you look for them. At this level, if you aren’t self-motivated, your approach is wrong. No matter what stage you’re playing at, your eyes must always be set on the next level,” Shami said after the Duleep Trophy final.The pacer also insisted that the level at which he gets an opportunity does not change his approach or his desire to contribute.“When you wear that crest on your chest, the level of cricket doesn’t matter. If you play for the badge, that hunger will naturally show. Your willingness to fight only grows when you play with that pride.“My mindset is simple: whichever level I get an opportunity to play, I want to make it count and fulfil my responsibility toward the team,” he said.
100th first-class match adds to special occasion
Shami’s 100th first-class game coincided with East Zone ending their long wait for a Duleep Trophy title, making the occasion particularly significant for the Bengal pacer.“As far as satisfaction goes, achieving this in my 100th match—and that too in a winning Duleep Trophy final—is special. East Zone has won this after a very long time. You’ve seen how we performed.“Every single boy put his heart and soul into this campaign to get us here. To achieve this in these conditions, in this heat, is outstanding. As for me, whether it’s your first match or your 100th, it doesn’t matter—the effort and the approach remain exactly the same,” he said.Shami’s continued performances in domestic cricket have also kept the conversation around his international future alive. But the pacer remains focused on what he can control rather than speculation over his India comeback.“It feels wonderful to receive so much love and support. I am truly grateful from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has supported me along the way.“My job is simply to put in the hard work—the rest is in the hands of the Almighty,” he signed off.
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