'Virat Kohli started calling me...' - A rapid-fire Q&A with Mohammed Shami - Watch

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Sep 4, 2024, 06:43 IST

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Virat Kohli gave Mohammed Shami his nickname, 'lala', in the team. As Shami recovers from an ankle surgery, he shared his career highlights in a short video. His jersey number is 11, which holds personal significance. He admires two fast bowlers more than others, and recalls his memorable ODI team induction speech.

'Virat Kohli started calling me...' - A rapid-fire Q&A with Mohammed Shami - Watch

File image of Virat Kohli, left, and Mohammed Shami (Photo Source: X)

Virat Kohli is known to keep the team's mood light with his laughter and pranks, and it was the batting legend who gave fast bowler Mohammed Shami his nickname.
Shami, who turned 34 on Tuesday, is currently in rehab following a surgery to fix his ankle injury and is moving closer to making a comeback to international cricket.
On the occasion of his birthday, Star Sports shared a video clip on social media, in which the Uttar Pradesh-born pacer is facing the camera, answering questions in a rapid-fire round.

Who gave you your nickname?
My nickname in the team, as you know, they call me 'lala'. Virat started it because almost everybody in the team had a nickname, only I was left.
On his jersey number...
My jersey number is 11. You can say that I like it. There are a lot of things that when calculated are 11 in my life.
Who are your favourite fast bowlers?
There are a lot of them. But if you are asking for names, then I like Waqar Younis and Dale Steyn more.

Batsmen you enjoy bowling....
If you talk about now, then for me it is Joe Root because he plays all around the wicket.
On his most memorable moment...
The most memorable part of my career is when I came into the ODI team. There was a tradition then to stand on a chair or a stool and give a speech. When I stood up and started seeing the faces, then I was left speechless. When I stepped into a meeting that had the top batsmen and the top bowlers, I just couldn't comprehend (what to say). But even today I haven't forgotten that meeting.

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