Indian Skipper Virat Kohli believes that a “fitter and hungrier” than ever before Mohammad Shami is a great sign for India heading into World Cup in a few months from now. Shami was one of the stars for India in their comfortable win over Australia in the first ODI of their five-match series, taking two wickets for 44 runs.
Since making his way back into the 50-over format this year, the fast bowler has made every opportunity count, bagging 15 wickets from eight matches.
“It’s brilliant the way Shami has come into the white-ball set up,” Kohli said at the post-match presentation. “I have never seen him so lean before. The way he got Maxwell out on 40-odd with a beautiful ball was just amazing. He looks a lot fitter and hungry for wickets.
“Going into the World Cup that’s a great sign for us and I hope he can show the same hunger when the tournament begins.”
For his part, the 29-year-old credited the work he has put in his fitness — after an injury layoff — for the run of success he has enjoyed of late.
“This year has been one where I have worked really hard on my fitness,” he said after the match. “We (team) enjoy our training and you get to the see the results on the field. I hope that we continue to enjoy playing together and performing for the country. When I returned from injuries, I weighed 93kg, and then I realised I needed to lose weight. I thank every one who pushed me, and I have maintained my weight since then.
“I just try to give my best for the team, and I keep taking feedback from the experienced players. I have focused more on my line and length in the last 18 months, and that’s worked for me really well.”
