Fast bowler Mohammed Shami recalled his father’s support after becoming the 5th Indian pacer to pick up 200 Test wickets on Day 3 of the 1st Test between South Africa and India in Centurion. Stressing that he could not have realized his dream without his father’s support in trying conditions, Shami paid an emotional tribute on the landmark day at the SuperSport Park.
Shami, who comes from Sahaspur in Uttar Pradesh’s Almora district, said he took to cricket despite knowing that his village did not have the facilities that were needed to produce an international cricketer. Shami said his father, who passed away in 2017, would take him 30 km every day to a coaching camp on cycle and sacrificed aplenty to make sure his son achieved what he wanted in life.
“My father has made me what I am today. I come from a village where there aren’t many facilities and even today there aren’t all facilities available. Even then, my father would cycle me 30 km to take me at coaching camp and that struggle I still remember. In those days and those situations, they invested in me and I am forever grateful,” Shami told the press on Tuesday.
Shedding light on the 200-wicket milestone, the senior pacer added: “No one can ever dream as to what he can ultimately achieve when you are coming up the ranks and struggling to make a mark. Your dream is to become an India player and play with those whom you have seen on TV. ‘
“All you can do is work hard and if you work hard you are bound to get results.”
