Indian Champion Pace Bowler Mohammed Shami has never been one to shy away from speaking his mind. Recently, when he was asked a tricky question—whether Muslim cricketers are targeted more by trolls when India plays Pakistan—Shami gave a straightforward and powerful reply that instantly won fans over.
The 34-year-old pacer, who has been India’s go-to match-winner in big tournaments, reminded everyone that social media trolling doesn’t bother him. Instead, his focus has always been on one thing—serving the Indian cricket team with full commitment.
Shami’s Blunt Response to Trolls
In an interaction, Shami was asked if he felt Muslim players in the Indian cricket team get singled out during India vs Pakistan matches, especially after India’s defeat in the 2021 T20 World Cup when he faced a wave of hateful comments online.
Shami didn’t lose his calm. Instead, he gave a measured yet blunt reply:
“I pay no heed to such trolling. I have been given a job. I am not a machine. If I am working hard throughout the year, sometimes I will fail, sometimes I will succeed. It’s up to people how they want to take that. When you play for your country, you forget all such things.”
He further added that real cricket fans never troll players.
“Trolls just have to type two lines. True fans will never do such things. If you have objections, then raise them—but respectfully. If you think you can do better than me, please come and try. It’s always open.”
This honest statement not only silenced his critics but also showed his maturity and professionalism.
Shami’s Journey of Resilience
Mohammed Shami’s career has been a story of grit and perseverance. From humble beginnings in Uttar Pradesh to becoming India’s strike bowler, he has faced injuries, criticism, and personal challenges—but always bounced back stronger.
- He was the highest wicket-taker for India in the 2023 ODI World Cup with 24 wickets in just 7 games, including a record-breaking 7/57 in the semi-final against New Zealand.
- Known for his lethal seam movement, Shami has been one of India’s most consistent bowlers in Tests, ODIs, and ICC tournaments.
Even recently, when he was overlooked for the Asia Cup 2025, Shami expressed his disappointment openly:
“If I am fit enough to play the Duleep Trophy, why not T20s? I am still hungry to play for India.”
This shows that despite setbacks, he hasn’t given up on his India comeback.
Mohammed Shami International Stats
| Format | Matches | Innings | Wickets | Best Bowling | 5-Wicket Hauls | Bowling Avg | Economy | Strike Rate | Runs Scored | Batting Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 64 | 124 | 229 | 6/56 | 6 | 27.71 | 3.30 | 51.3 | 772 | 11.9 |
| ODI | 101 | 100 | 195 | 7/57 | 4 | 25.66 | 5.61 | 27.4 | 442 | 12.9 |
| T20I | 23 | 23 | 24 | 3/15 | 0 | 29.62 | 8.94 | 19.8 | 19 | 9.5 |
| Overall (Intl.) | 188 | 247 | 448 | 7/57 | 10 | ~26.7 | – | – | 1233 | – |
Shami on Retirement Talks
When questioned about whether he has thought of retiring, Shami gave a fiery yet heartfelt reply:
“If someone has a problem, tell me—if their life becomes better when I retire, then I’ll listen. Tell me, whose life am I blocking that you want me to retire? The day I get bored, I’ll leave. You don’t pick me? Fine, I will keep working hard. If not international, I’ll play domestic. I will keep playing somewhere or the other. Retirement is a decision you take when you start feeling bored, and that time has not come for me.”
This strong statement reflects Shami’s hunger and love for the game. Despite facing selection snubs, he made it clear that he’s not ready to hang up his boots anytime soon.
His words also send a message to critics—that his passion for cricket comes from within, not from outside noise.
Shami’s response highlights an important truth—cricket unites a nation of 1.4 billion people. Online trolls may try to divide, but players like Shami remind fans that the tricolour jersey is above everything else.
His dignity and courage, both on and off the field, make him a role model not just for cricketers but for anyone facing hate or negativity.
Mohammed Shami’s blunt reply to trolls is more than just a statement—it’s a lesson. A lesson in ignoring hate, focusing on your job, and representing your country with pride.
At a time when social media noise often overshadows performance, Shami has once again proven why he is not just a great fast bowler but also a true sportsman.
