Mohammed Shami’s Incredible Fitness Journey-Shedding 9kg Before Champions Trophy 2025

Mohammed Shami, one of India's premier fast bowlers, has once again proven his mettle on the grand stage. The Champions Trophy 2025 has kicked off with a bang, and in India’s first match against Bangladesh, Shami delivered a stellar performance, taking a five-wicket haul. His return to the top half of the order has eased Indian cricket supporters, particularly given that Jasprit Bumrah is still out through injury. Shami's road back to full fitness was not easy, however. He went through a strict rehab program after an injury kept him sidelined for months and needed surgery, then spent extended periods in rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). His sensational change, losing nine kilograms, demonstrates his determination and uncompromising commitment. The Path to Rehabilitation: Return from Injuries and Troubles

2023 ODI World Cup was the summit accomplishment of Shami, wherein he was the competition's highest wicket-taker.

Subsequent to that, though, a hurt halted him from taking part in competitive cricket. His time away from cricket was hard, but he was determined to return in style. There were several months at the NCA working day and night to become fit for Shami. All his hard work eventually came through when he returned to domestic cricket to be subsequently a part of India's Champions Trophy team. There was a wake-up call for former India cricketer turned commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu with Shami when India beat Bangladesh, while during that period the pacer had been divulging his workout routine and weight loss.

Sidhu: How did you lose five to six kilograms?

Shami: I have lost nine kilograms in real life.

Sidhu: No more biryani for you, then?

Shami: The biggest challenge is to restrain oneself.

When I was recuperating at the NCA, my weight was 90 kg. The secret is not to indulge in cravings at every moment. I don't eat sweets, and I don't eat that which should not be eaten. Well, biryani happens to be my cheat meal sometimes. A little indulgence will never hurt. I have been on an off-the-beaten-track diet since 2015—I take just one meal a day. I avoid breakfast and lunch and take only dinner. It was difficult initially, but once you adjust to it, it comes naturally. A Record-Breaking Performance in the Champions Trophy

Shami’s fitness overhaul has translated into spectacular performances on the field. Against Bangladesh, he showcased his mastery by dismantling their batting lineup, finishing with figures of 5/53. His early breakthroughs put Bangladesh in deep trouble at 35/5, setting the tone for India's dominance in the match. His exceptional bowling display did not go unnoticed, with India’s vice-captain Shubman Gill lauding his efforts.

"Shami is a magician of five-wicket returns in ICC tournaments. The manner in which he bowled today was unbelievable, putting so much pressure on the opposing team. To recover from injury and perform at this level is not simple. He is a legend for sure," was what Gill said in a video BCCI posted.

Shami is a big-match performer. Five fifers in ICC ODI series, and also the highest number of fifers in such games, surpassing legends like Glenn McGrath, Mitchell Starc, and Mustafizur Rahman. Four of them have been in the World Cup, which shows he is consistent with big games too.

Fastest to 200 ODI Wickets-Another Record Achieved

Shami’s heroics against Bangladesh were not just about his five-wicket haul. He also reached a historic milestone by becoming the fastest Indian bowler to claim 200 ODI wickets. He achieved this feat in just 5,126 balls, making him the quickest to do so in terms of deliveries bowled. Globally, he is the third-fastest to reach the landmark, cementing his legacy as one of the finest pacers India has ever produced.

Shami’s Approach to Fitness-The Discipline Behind the Success

Shami’s commitment to fitness goes beyond just losing weight. His rigorous training regimen, strict diet, and mental discipline have played a crucial role in his resurgence. Avoiding excessive indulgences, sticking to a single meal per day, and focusing on high-intensity training have helped him maintain peak physical condition. His transformation not only underscores his dedication but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers.

With India set to play its much-anticipated match against Pakistan, the limelight will again be on Mohammed Shami. His record to perform under pressure and spearhead the bowling attack when Bumrah is not there makes him a prized possession of Team India. Going by his past performances, Shami is geared up for the challenge and take India to the Champions Trophy 2025 victory.

With unshakeable determination, unexampled physical fitness, and an irrepressible urge to be great, Mohammed Shami continues to reassert why he is one of the best in business. His life has been a testament of resilience, self-restraint, and the unwavering quest for greatness.