"Beyond My Comprehension": Mohammed Shami Stumps Reporter With Response To Playing XI Question

India's Mohammed Shami bagged 5 wickets against Australia in the first ODI of the 3-match series.

Not used to being benched by the Indian team management, Mohammed Shami has seen his game-time being limited in the 50-over format over the last few matches. But, as Shami featured in the playing XI against Australia for the first ODI, the veteran pacer bagged 5 wickets, giving a fine example of the talent and skills he brings to the table. While sitting on the bench isn't something any player enjoys, Shami said that even when he was in the playing XI, there were some players who missed out. "When I was playing regularly, there must have been someone, who had to sit out and I wasn't guilty. So you can't feel low if you are sitting out because the team is winning," a pragmatic Mohammed Shami told reporters in a press conference after India's victory over Australia in the first ODI on Friday.

The Indian team management has indicated that when it plays full strength during the upcoming World Cup, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj will be the two front-line pacers.

But after his match-winning figures of 5 for 51, Shami said that rotation isn't a bad thing when you play so many matches on the bounce.

"This is the team's plan and it is important to stick with it. You can't be always in the playing XI because a lot depends on the team combination," Shami said.

"If you are playing, well and good and if you are not in the playing XI, then you should be supportive of those, who are playing. I think there is no point feeling low and I am ready to play the role the team gives me," Shami said as he steered clear of anything that could be remotely controversial.