In a momentous ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami was conferred with the prestigious Arjuna Award by President Droupadi Murmu. This recognition comes as a testament to Shami’s remarkable contributions to Indian cricket, particularly his outstanding performances throughout the year 2023.
President Droupadi Murmu presents the Arjuna Award 2023 to Mohammad Shami for his excellent performance.#NationalSportsAwards2023 @MdShami11 pic.twitter.com/m0NHOnvdG8
— Doordarshan Sports (@ddsportschannel) January 9, 2024
Shami’s excellence on the field during the ODI World Cup 2023 garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying his candidacy for this esteemed honor. Despite missing the initial four games of the tournament, Shami’s exceptional pace and skill saw him secure an impressive 24 wickets in just seven matches. His bowling prowess proved to be a nightmare for opposition teams, and his stellar run culminated in the breaking of several records.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) played a pivotal role in recommending Shami for the Arjuna Award, acknowledging his consistent brilliance and valuable contributions to the team’s success. The elated cricketer expressed his joy and pride at receiving the award, emphasizing the significance of this achievement in his career.
“This award is a dream; life passes, and people are not able to win this award. It’s a matter of great joy, and I’m feeling proud. A lot of individuals remain mere spectators as they watch others win these awards throughout their lives. It’s a dream that remains unfulfilled for many,” Shami remarked on Monday in an interview with ANI.
Mohammed Shami Bowling Stats- ICC ODI World Cup 2023
| Date | Match | Wickets | Economy | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15-11-2023 | India vs New Zealand (Semi-Final) | 7/57 | 5.8 | Mumbai |
| 12-11-2023 | India vs Netherlands | 0/41 | 6.83 | Bengaluru |
| 02-11-2023 | India vs Sri Lanka | 5/18 | 3.6 | Mumbai |
| 29-10-2023 | India vs England | 4/22 | 3.14 | Lucknow |
| 22-10-2023 | India vs New Zealand | 5/54 | 5.4 | Dharamsala |
| 5-11-2023 | India vs South Africa | 2/18 | 4.5 | Kolkata |
Shami’s ascent to becoming India’s all-time highest wicket-taker in the history of the ODI World Cup further underscores his impact on the cricketing world. The Arjuna Award stands as a well-deserved recognition of Mohammed Shami’s exceptional skills, dedication, and invaluable contributions to Indian cricket.