On September 3, Mohammed Shami, one of India’s most celebrated fast bowlers, turned 34. Today, he is recognized globally for his exceptional talent and has earned both fame and wealth. However, Shami’s journey to success was anything but easy. Few are aware of the challenges he faced, including a time when he had to seek shelter in someone else’s home just to keep his cricketing dreams alive.
The Early Struggles in Amroha
Born in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, Mohammed Shami grew up playing cricket in the narrow lanes of his hometown. Despite his undeniable talent, opportunities at the higher levels of cricket were scarce in Amroha. Shami’s coach, Badruddin Siddiqui, recognized his potential and advised him to move to Kolkata, where cricketing opportunities were more abundant. It was a tough decision for young Shami, but with dreams of representing India, he decided to leave his home and everything familiar behind.
Finding Shelter and Support in Kolkata
In 2005, Shami arrived in Kolkata with little more than determination and a desire to prove himself. He joined the Dalhousie Athletic Club, where his talent quickly caught the attention of Debabrata Das, the Assistant Secretary of the Cricket Association of Bengal. Das was so impressed by Shami’s bowling that he introduced him to the legendary Sourav Ganguly. After watching Shami bowl, Ganguly advised Das to take care of the promising young cricketer.
Das not only secured Shami a place in his club, Town Club, with a contract of Rs 75,000 but also provided him with a place to stay in his own house. This gesture was crucial for Shami, who had no place to live and was struggling financially. Despite his hard work and dedication, Shami initially faced disappointment when he failed to make it to Bengal’s Under-22 team.
Breakthrough into the Bengal Team
Undeterred by the setbacks, Shami continued to work hard. His persistence paid off in 2010 when he finally earned a place in Bengal’s first-class team. Making his debut against Assam, Shami’s performance was nothing short of impressive. Over the next three years, he continued to excel, earning a spot in the Indian national team. Shami made his international debut in an ODI against Pakistan, where his pace and swing left the Pakistani batsmen struggling, despite taking just one wicket.
Rising to the Top
Over the years, Shami has become one of India’s most reliable fast bowlers. His achievements speak volumes: 229 wickets in 64 Test matches, 195 wickets in 101 ODIs, and 127 wickets in the IPL. The young boy who once had to rely on the kindness of others now owns assets worth over 50 crores. Shami’s journey from the streets of Amroha to becoming a cricketing superstar is a testament to his resilience and determination.
Today, Shami owns a sprawling farmhouse in Amroha, complete with a personal cricket ground and practice nets. His story is not just one of talent but also of grit and unwavering commitment to his dreams. Mohammed Shami’s rise to the top is an inspiration for aspiring cricketers across the country.
