“I Always Keep It Simple”, Says Mohammed Shami On His Approach To Adapting To Conditions

March 5, 2025: After India’s crucial four-wicket win over Australia in the first semifinal of the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai, fast bowler Mohammed Shami shared his insights on how he adapted to the conditions and his approach to bowling in challenging situations.

Shami, who played a pivotal role in India’s win with figures of 3/48 in 10 overs, has now climbed to the top of the wicket-taking charts, alongside New Zealand’s Matt Henry, both with eight wickets in the tournament. His consistent performance has been a key factor in India’s progress to the final.

In a tournament where fast bowlers have faced difficulties, Shami emphasized the importance of understanding the pitch conditions. He explained that playing all matches at the same venue allowed him to get a good grasp of the pitch behavior, adjusting his practice sessions accordingly. “You have to know the conditions very well. The more you practice according to the wicket, the better you will bowl,” he said.

Shami also noted that playing at the same venue for all their matches helped him become more familiar with the conditions, especially with factors like the weather. “Today, for example, it was colder, so you have to adjust accordingly. It’s definitely a plus to play all matches at the same venue,” he added.

When asked about his strategy, Shami kept it simple: focus on hitting the right areas. He explained that, as a bowler, he always aims to execute his best delivery and avoid overthinking. “In white-ball cricket, you don’t need to overthink early on. The real skill adjustments come after 30-35 overs, when the game changes,” Shami explained.

Shami, who has carried the responsibility of being India’s strike bowler, also discussed the pressure that comes with the job. “There is always a load when you are the main fast bowler because you have to take wickets and come back for crucial spells. It can be challenging, but I’ve gotten used to it,” he said.

Despite the physical demands, Shami emphasized the importance of effort and focus over fitness concerns. “I don’t believe in overthinking fitness. What matters is how much effort you put in and how your body responds. As far as the workload is concerned, I am a labourer,” he chuckled, showcasing his strong work ethic.

With India securing a well-fought victory over Australia, they now move into the final of the Champions Trophy. Shami’s ability to adapt to the conditions and maintain his wicket-taking form has been a crucial factor in India’s success throughout the tournament.