Mohammed Shami was the top wicket-taker in the Cricket World Cup 2023, taking 24 wickets in just 7 matches. His outstanding performances helped India reach the final. However, there were strange accusations from Pakistan, with former player Hasan Raza claiming the Indian team cheated by using different balls. Shami, who wasn’t initially part of the playing XI, joined the team after Hardik Pandya’s injury and made a significant impact with two five-wicket hauls and a 4-wicket performance in the next 7 matches. Shami dismissed the comments from some former Pakistani cricket stars, stating they couldn’t accept his success.

“I pray to god that 10 bowlers come up with my kind of performance. I am not jealous of anyone. If you start enjoying the success of others, you will become a better player,” Shami said in an with Puma.

“I’ve been hearing a lot lately. Initially, I wasn’t part of the Playing XI, but when I got the chance, I took 5 wickets. In the next two games, I dismissed 4 and 5 batters. Some Pakistani players couldn’t handle my success; they seem to think they’re the best. In my opinion, the best player is the one who performs when it matters,” Shami stated. He found it puzzling that former player Hasan Raza made nonsensical comments about different balls being used.

“They were causing unnecessary controversy, claiming we were using different balls. Even Wasim bhai explained the ball selection process on his show. It’s disappointing when someone who hasn’t played the game makes such statements. As an ex-player, you should know better,” he concluded.