Synopsis
In a significant match, Shubman Gill praised Mohammed Shami's legendary comeback after injury, highlighting his impressive performance of 5-53 against Bangladesh. This victory marks a strong start for India's Champions Trophy campaign, showcasing Shami's vital role and Gill's own achievement of scoring an unbeaten century.Key Takeaways
- Mohammed Shami shines with a five-wicket haul.
- Shubman Gill scores an unbeaten century.
- Shami's comeback from a 14-month injury layoff.
- India's strong start in the Champions Trophy.
- Upcoming clash against Pakistan.
New Delhi, Feb 21 (NationPress) After India secured a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh to launch its Champions Trophy journey on a high note, vice-captain Shubman Gill praised Mohammed Shami for his remarkable spell of 5-53, declaring the veteran pacer a legend due to the challenges of returning after an injury.
Shami made a significant comeback after a 14-month hiatus caused by an achilles tendon injury that required surgery. His impressive five-wicket haul not only made him the fastest Indian bowler to achieve 200 ODI wickets but also positioned him as India's top wicket-taker in ICC 50-over tournaments.
“Whenever he takes the ball in an ICC tournament, he's consistently taking five wickets. It’s often 4, 5, 4, and 5. Sometimes, you hardly notice when he achieves that five-wicket mark,” Gill mentioned.
“Mehidy is a strong performer against us. In the Bangladesh series, he excelled. However, Shami Bhai maintained his lines and lengths, which kept the pressure on the new batsman,” he added.
“It forced them to score runs, and Shami Bhai consistently delivered balls on that line, swinging them effectively. The catch was quick, coming to me fast. His comeback after the injury is remarkable, and he truly is a legend,” Gill expressed in a video shared on bcci.tv.
Reflecting on his performance, Shami noted, “The only change is my return from injury. I don't see anything else. My rhythm was good back then, and I continue to perform well. After 14 months of practice, I am thrilled with the results and enjoying the journey.”
In the chase for 229 runs, Gill scored an unbeaten 101 off 129 deliveries, featuring nine fours and two sixes, leading India to victory with 21 balls remaining. “This is my first century in ICC tournaments. I missed out a few times in the World Cup, once getting out on 90 while batting well. This is especially satisfying for me, particularly in a chase. I was determined to finish the game for the team,” he stated.
Shami also commended Gill's performance. “The way he managed the innings from start to finish was crucial. Holding one end and accumulating runs is essential, and scoring 100 on a wicket like this is a commendable achievement.”
With India's upcoming clash against Pakistan on Sunday in Dubai, Shami concluded, “I hope the form of all players in this ICC tournament continues, allowing us all to perform for our team.”
