Chennai, Sep 10: Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami may have spent more than a year away from the Indian team, but the 36-year-old insists his hunger to compete and improve remains undiminished, saying his eyes are always set on the “next level”.
Shami marked his 100th first-class appearance on Thursday with East Zone’s Duleep Trophy triumph over South Zone. He contributed two crucial wickets as South Zone were bowled out for 336, with East Zone securing the title on the basis of their first-innings lead.
Shami’s last appearance for India came in March 2025, while he has not played Test cricket since the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023.
However, the long absence from international cricket has not affected his approach. Shami said staying motivated was a personal responsibility and players must continue setting new targets for themselves.
“There are plenty of reasons to stay motivated if you look for them. At this level, if you aren’t self-motivated, your approach is wrong. No matter what stage you’re playing at, your eyes must always be set on the next level,” Shami said after the Duleep Trophy final.
The pacer also emphasised that the level of cricket does not alter his commitment once he represents a team.
“When you wear that crest on your chest, the level of cricket doesn’t matter. If you play for the badge, that hunger will naturally show. Your willingness to fight only grows when you play with that pride,” he said.
Shami said his mindset remains focused on making the most of every opportunity.
“Whichever level I get an opportunity to play, I want to make it count and fulfil my responsibility toward the team,” he said.
His 100th first-class appearance proved particularly memorable as it coincided with East Zone ending their long wait for the Duleep Trophy.
“As far as satisfaction goes, achieving this in my 100th match—and that too in a winning Duleep Trophy final—is special. East Zone has won this after a very long time. You’ve seen how we performed,” Shami said.
He credited the entire squad for its effort in challenging conditions, saying every player had put in a huge amount of work to secure the title.
Shami also made it clear that reaching the landmark had not changed his approach to the game.
“Whether it’s your first match or your 100th, it doesn’t matter—the effort and the approach remain exactly the same,” he said.
His continued domestic performances have kept speculation about an India comeback alive, but Shami preferred to focus on the aspects within his control.
Reflecting on the support he has received, the fast bowler said, “It feels wonderful to receive so much love and support. I am truly grateful from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has supported me along the way.”
Shami signed off by underlining his faith in hard work rather than speculation about his future.
“My job is simply to put in the hard work—the rest is in the hands of the Almighty,” he said.
