Indian Pacer Mohammed Shami Recommended for Arjuna Award Following World Cup Heroics

India’s cricket board (BCCI) has recommended pace sensation Mohammed Shami for the coveted Arjuna Award in recognition of his outstanding performance in the recently concluded ODI World Cup. Sources reveal that the BCCI made a special request to the Sports Ministry to include Shami’s name, as he initially did not feature in the list of nominees for the country’s second-highest sporting honour.

World Cup Heroics and Leading Wicket-Taker

Mohammed Shami, one of India’s ODI World Cup heroes, played a pivotal role in the team’s journey to the final, where they narrowly lost to Australia. The 33-year-old pacer had a spectacular run in the tournament, finishing as the leading wicket-taker with an impressive tally of 24 wickets from just seven outings.

Despite sitting out the first four games, Shami seized the opportunity when given the chance, displaying remarkable bowling prowess. His outstanding performance played a crucial role in India’s success, contributing significantly to their runner-up finish in the ODI World Cup.

Sources indicate that the BCCI, acknowledging Shami’s exceptional contributions, took the initiative to request the inclusion of his name for the Arjuna Award. The move underlines the board’s recognition of Shami’s stellar performances and his significant impact on the team’s success.

Upcoming Test Series Against South Africa

Following his remarkable stint in the ODI World Cup, Mohammed Shami is expected to feature prominently in India’s upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa. The first Test is scheduled as a Boxing Day match starting on December 26 in Centurion, followed by the second game in Cape Town commencing on January 3.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has formed a 12-member committee, with retired Supreme Court Justice AM Khanwilkar at the helm, to decide this year’s sports awards, including the prestigious Arjuna Award. The committee comprises six former international athletes, including notable names like Dhanraj Pillay, Kamlesh Mehta, Akhil Kumar, Shuma Shirur, Anjum Chopra, Tripti Murgunde, and Farman Pasha.

As Mohammed Shami awaits the committee’s decision, the recommendation for the Arjuna Award stands as a testament to his exceptional cricketing prowess and significant contributions to Indian cricket.

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