Mohammed Shami and Shikhar Dhawan shared approximately a decade playing together for the Indian national team. Shami led the pace attack while Dhawan opened the batting across formats. The two cricketers developed a close understanding of team dynamics during their years in the squad.

In a recent interview, Shami reflected on Dhawan’s role in maintaining morale within the dressing room. He highlighted how Dhawan’s personality shaped the atmosphere during both successful and difficult moments in the team’s campaign.

How Dhawan lifted dressing room spirits

Shami explained that Dhawan’s approach to handling defeats was unconventional yet effective. Rather than allowing disappointment to settle over the group, Dhawan would initiate moments of levity that shifted the emotional tone. His willingness to perform and entertain became a defining feature of how the team processed both victories and setbacks.

Shami also recalled his own early experience joining the Indian team setup. When he first arrived, he attended a team meeting the day before a match. The occasion left him overwhelmed by the presence of established cricketers whose names he had long admired.

Shami’s recollection highlighted the nervousness that accompanied his entry into international cricket. The presence of established players created an intimidating environment for a newcomer. His brief introduction, limited to his name and hometown, reflected the awe he felt in that moment. Shami has gone on to become one of the finest fast bowlers to have played for India. He is also a member of the 2025 Champions Trophy-winning Indian side.

However, this is the last time Shami represented the Men in Blue. He has been performing well for Bengal in domestic cricket. However, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has not handed him a recall. Still, the 35-year-old will have aspirations of playing in the ODI World Cup next year. He was the highest wicket-taker for India in the previous edition of the marquee event in 2019, when Rohit Sharma and Co. were beaten by Australia in the final.

The legendary cricketer has been picked in East Zone’s side for the upcoming Duleep Trophy contest. The East Zone side is set to be led by Ishan Kishan, with the talented Vaibhav Sooryavanshi being his deputy. With most of the star players in Indian cricket set to appear in the tournament, Shami will get another chance to remind the selectors about his form and potential.