More than a year away from Team India, but Mohammed Shami refuses to slow down: ‘Eyes must always be set on next level’

East Zone captain Ishan Kishan (right) and Mohammed Shami pose with the trophy after winning the 2026-27 Duleep Trophy. (PTI photo) CHENNAI: Mohammed Shami has not played for India since March 2025 and his last Test appearance came more than three years ago, but the veteran pacer insists his motivation has not waned. At 36, Shami says he is still driven to move towards the “next level” of his career.Shami made his 100th first-class appearance with a Duleep Trophy triumph on Thursday as East Zone beat South Zone on the back of a first-innings lead. The seasoned fast bowler played his part in the title race, picking up two important wickets as South Zone were bowled out for 336.His remarkable appearance and winning the East Zone title offered Shami a moment of satisfaction, but his focus remained firmly on continuing to compete and improve despite being out of the international set-up for more than a year.

“There are plenty of reasons to stay motivated”

Shami last appeared for India in March 2025, while he has not featured in Test cricket since the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023.Despite the long international absence, the fast bowler said that motivation is a personal responsibility and that he continues to set new goals.“There are plenty of reasons to stay motivated if you look for them. At this level, if you are not self-motivated, your attitude is wrong. No matter what stage you are playing, your eyes must always be on the next level,” Shami said after the Duleep Trophy final.Temper also insisted that the level at which he will be given the opportunity does not change his approach or his desire to contribute.“When you wear that crest on your chest, the level of cricket doesn’t matter. If you’re playing for a badge, that hunger naturally comes through. Your willingness to fight only grows when you play with that pride.”“My mindset is simple: at whatever level I get the opportunity to play, I want to make it count and fulfill my responsibility to the team,” he said.

The 100th first-class match makes for a special occasion

Shami’s 100th first-class game coincided with East Zone ending their long wait for the Duleep Trophy title, making the occasion particularly significant for the Bengal pacer.“In terms of satisfaction, to achieve this in my 100th game – and also in a winning Duleep Trophy final – is special. East Zone won it after a very long time. You saw how we performed.”“Every single lad has put their heart and soul into this campaign to get us here. To achieve it in these conditions, in this heat, is outstanding. As far as I’m concerned, it doesn’t matter if it’s your first game or your 100th – the effort and attitude remains exactly the same,” he said.Shami’s continued performances in domestic cricket have also kept the talk of his international future alive. But the paceman is more focused on what he can control than speculating about his return to India.“It feels amazing to receive so much love and support. I am truly grateful from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has supported me along the way.”“My job is simply to put in the hard work – the rest is in the hands of the Almighty,” he signed off.