Indian pacer Mohammed Shami recounted an incident where Hardik Pandya, the captain of Gujarat Titans (GT), angrily yelled at him during a IPL 2022 match. Shami believes cricketers should refrain from such emotional outbursts on the field.

In a recent interview on Shubhankar Mishra’s YouTube channel, right-arm fast bowler spoke about his long-standing cordial relationship with Hardik Pandya, stating that they have known each other for nearly a decade.

“I usually avoid responding to such matters, I do speak up when the situation becomes too dire. Hardik and I have maintained a close friendship for nearly a decade. In the heat of the moment, he seemed unaware of his words, telling me, ‘I swear, I don’t know what I’ve said.’ As public figures watched by millions, we must exercise restraint and control our emotions,” stated Shami.

Shami noted that he did not receive enough playing time in Delhi Capitals and was also was released by Punjab Kings despite being a top performer.

“After failing to get chances in Delhi, I took 60 wickets for Punjab over three seasons. However, they did not retain me and instead traded me to Gujarat. In 2 seasons with GT, I picked up 48 wickets. If they too choose to release me, it won’t make much difference – I’ll play for whichever team selects me. If you want a proven performer, then keep me. But if you’re more concerned with looks, then go find a few models instead,” he added.

In their maiden IPL season, Gujarat Titans, led by Hardik Pandya, clinched the coveted title in 2022. Mohammed Shami was the leading wicket-taker for the Gujarat-based team, taking 20 wickets in 16 matches.

Earlier this year, Shami underwent Achilles tendon surgery, sidelining him from the IPL 2024 and T20 World Cup. Now, he is training hard and gearing up for his highly anticipated comeback.