The announcement of Hardik Pandya’s return to Mumbai Indians from Gujarat Titans ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season created waves in the cricketing community. Pandya, who captained GT in the last two seasons, led the franchise to the final on both occasions, securing their maiden title in 2021 and finishing as runners-up in 2022 against Chennai Super Kings. His surprising trade back to Mumbai Indians, his former team, for the new season prompted reactions across the cricketing spectrum, including a notable comment from India fast bowler Mohammed Shami.
In an interview, Shami was questioned about the impact of Hardik Pandya stepping down as the captain of Gujarat Titans. He responded, “Kisike jane se kisiko farak nahi padta (See, it doesn’t matter who is leaving).” Shami emphasized the importance of considering the team’s balance and acknowledged that players, including captains, may come and go. Reflecting on Pandya’s leadership, Shami highlighted the team’s journey to the final under Pandya’s captaincy and stressed that Hardik’s departure was ultimately his decision.
The new captain of Gujarat Titans, Shubman Gill, was entrusted with the responsibility of leading the team. Shami expressed confidence in Gill’s ability to handle the captaincy, emphasizing that managing players effectively and extracting the best from the team are crucial aspects of leadership.
Shami, along with archers Ojas Pravin Deotale, Sheetal Devi, and Aditi Gopichand Swami, and wrestler Antim Panghal, was honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award at Rashtrapati Bhawan by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu. The Arjuna Award is India’s second-highest athletic honor, recognizing outstanding performance, leadership qualities, sportsmanship, and discipline over the previous four years.
In 2023, a total of 17 athletes, including pace sensation Shami, were conferred with the Arjuna Award for their remarkable performances. Shami, who emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the ICC Cricket World Cup in India last year with 24 scalps, expressed joy at receiving the coveted accolade. He acknowledged the significance of the award, describing it as a dream that many athletes aspire to achieve throughout their careers.
Shami, with his exceptional performances and contributions to Indian cricket, has become a celebrated figure, and the Arjuna Award is a testament to his dedication and prowess on the cricket field.