Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) head coach Daniel Vettori has cleared the air regarding Mohammed Shami's fitness. Shami, who was picked by SRH for ₹10 crore in the mega auction, has managed to pick up only six wickets in nine innings with an expensive economy of 11.23.
“There are no fitness concerns from our end. He's trained and prepared as well as he can," Vettori told reporters at the press conference.
"He had high expectations coming into the tournament, especially given how well he bowled in the Champions Trophy.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!"If you look back two seasons ago, he was the Purple Cap winner, so we know he's capable of performing well in the IPL.
"This season, it just hasn't come together for him. He probably hasn’t been the consistent bowler we're used to seeing, which is frustrating for him as well.
"But he's working exceptionally hard to get things right,” he said.
Shami has also registered the unwanted record of conceding the most runs by an Indian bowler in IPL history, having been hit for 74 runs in four overs in the match against Punjab Kings.
Speaking about his recovery from a knee injury that kept him out of action for more than a year, Shami said regaining rhythm and mindset was tough.
"Injuries are part and parcel of a fast bowler's life. My recovery took 14 months, and it wasn't easy -- especially given the challenges I faced during my domestic career. Regaining rhythm and the right mindset was tough.
"In 2023, I had a sudden breakdown, so I made it a point to play as many domestic matches as possible -- ended up playing 12 or 13. That, along with the England series, helped me rebuild my confidence. When it comes to performance, I've always focused on giving my best," he said.
Who's that IPL player?Soon after his exceptional performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup at home, Shami got injured and was out of action for a prolonged period.
Shami also spoke about his experience of playing for his new franchise, Sunrisers Hyderabad.
"SRH has completely changed my perspective -- what used to be a 200-run target now feels like 300. They've redefined the game. As for my role, I want to be part of a team that sets new benchmarks and shifts mindsets. I feel I've joined a strong unit, and I'm focused on contributing my best.
"We've built a strong bowling unit as well at SRH -- a solid pace attack and quality spinners to back it up. Overall, our bowling is much more balanced now, and those who think SRH is only about batting are mistaken."
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