Mohammad Shami speaks out unfiltered about Hardik Pandya’s shouting at IPL 2022: “If things get too bad, I’ll say something…”

Premier India paceman Mohammad Shami recalled an infamous incident involving him and Hardik Pandya during IPL 2022 when the two were still playing together for Gujarat Titans. It was Hardik’s first season as captain in the IPL and he did a phenomenal job leading the Titans to a title win in their debut season. The flamboyant all-rounder impressed many with his leadership skills; during the learning phase, he experienced some highs – his team had a dominant run – but also some lows, including a moment when he lost his cool and shouted at Shami on the field when the latter committed an on-field error.

The Indian pacer went down memory lane and spoke about the incident. He revealed how he reacts to such situations and spoke about his camaraderie with Hardik as the two have known each other for nearly a decade.

“I usually don’t react to such things but when things get too bad then I say something. We have a good bond and are friends. He didn’t realise at that moment. We have known each other for almost 10 years. He told me, ‘I swear I don’t know what I said.’ Millions of people are watching us on the screen, we have to control our emotions,” Shami said on Shubhankar Mishra’s YouTube channel.

The star pacer also spoke about his journey in the IPL and how his previous teams, Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, treated him.

“Delhi didn’t give me a chance, then I took 60 wickets for Punjab in three years, they didn’t keep me and sent me to Gujarat,” he added.

With a mega auction looming for next season, Shami has made it clear that he would not mind if the Titans released him despite his incredible track record for them.

“I have taken 48 wickets for Gujarat in two years and if they don’t keep me, what difference does it make? I will play with the team that selects me. If you want a performer then keep me, if you want looks then find two or three models and bring them,” he added.