Mohammed Shami hits back at criticism from Pakistan players over 'ball change controversy'

Ace India pacer Mohammed Shami has had an outstanding campaign in the recently concluded ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, where the Rohit Sharma-led side emerged as runners-up. The 33-year-old finished as the tournament's leading wicket-taker with 24 wickets to his name from seven games at an average of 10.70 and an impressive economy rate of 5.26.

His heroic contributions were pivotal in propelling India to the final of the competition. However, amidst the achievements, he faced criticism from certain Pakistan players, with former player Hasan Raza accusing the Indian team of 'cheating'. Raza specifically alleged that Shami and the Indian bowlers were provided with different balls compared to other teams in the marquee event.

Reflecting on the accusations, Shami expressed that he is not the type of person jealous of others' success. The 33-year-old added that some players from Pakistan seemed unable to accept his accomplishments.

"I pray to god that 10 bowlers come up with my kind of performance. I am not jealous of anyone. If you start enjoying the success of others, you will become a better player," Shami was quoted as saying by NDTV.

"I was hearing a lot since the last couple of days. I was not a part of the Playing XI in the initial matches. When I was drafted into the team, I took 5 wickets. In the next two games, I dismissed 4 and 5 batters. Some of the Pakistan players couldn't digest my success. Actually, they think they are the best. According to me, a player who performs on time is the best," he added.

Shami expressed his bewilderment at former player Hasan Raza's comments regarding the use of different balls. The speedster emphasised that Wasim Akram had recently clarified the entire process of ball selection.

"They were creating unwanted controversy. They said we were getting different types of balls. Even Wasim (Akram) bhai explained the whole process of ball selection in one of his shows. I understand if something of this sort comes up from a person who hasn't been a player. You have played cricket, you are an ex-player, shouldn't make such statements," he concluded.