On the auspicious occasion of the Sports and Adventure Awards 2023 at Rashtrapati Bhavan, India’s pace spearhead, Mohammed Shami, was bestowed with the prestigious Arjuna Award by President Droupadi Murmu. Shami, a vital part of the Indian cricket team, had a stellar year, contributing significantly to their runner-up finishes in both the World Test Championship and the ODI World Cup.
The 33-year-old fast bowler’s exceptional performance in the World Cup, hosted in India, saw him emerge as the leading wicket-taker, claiming an impressive 24 wickets from just seven matches. This remarkable feat undoubtedly played a pivotal role in India’s journey to the final and earned Shami well-deserved recognition for his outstanding achievements in the realm of sports.
Expressing his pride and gratitude, Shami took to social media to share a video of the award ceremony, stating, “Today I am feeling very proud that I have been honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award by the President. I want to thank all those people who have helped me a lot to reach here and have always supported me in my ups and downs.”
Acknowledging the crucial roles played by his coach, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), teammates, family, and support staff, Shami extended his heartfelt thanks. He also expressed gratitude to his fans, recognizing their unwavering support and appreciation for his hard work on the field.
In the company of fellow exceptional athletes receiving the Arjuna Award, such as wrestler Antim Panghal, boxer Mohammad Hussamuddin, and athlete Parul Chaudhary, Shami stands as a symbol of dedication and excellence in Indian sports. As he looks forward to continuing to give his best on the field, the cricketing community and the nation eagerly anticipate more proud moments from Mohammed Shami, making the country proud on the international stage.
