Mohammed Shami Hails Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Maturity Despite His Youth

NEW DELHI: Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami believes today’s young cricketers are arriving better prepared than previous generations, requiring timely guidance rather than constant coaching.

Shami, who has not represented India since March 2025 and last played a Test during the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval, spoke about mentoring emerging players after helping East Zone defeat South Zone in the Duleep Trophy final.

One player who stood out was teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, a member of the East Zone squad.

“As old as my career”: Shami praises Sooryavanshi’s attitude

“I thoroughly enjoyed working with the young players. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is literally as old as my career,” Shami said. “He has youthful innocence, enjoys joking around and absorbs information quickly.”

The 36-year-old said exposure to the Indian Premier League and other demanding competitions has helped young players develop their maturity at an earlier age.

“Most of these youngsters are already quite mature,” he said. “The level of cricket they play today, including the IPL and other high-pressure tournaments, accelerates their development, so you do not need to over-coach them.”

“When the game becomes tight and challenging, however, that is when you step in with tactical advice and remind them to keep fighting.”

Shami’s long absence from the Indian side has not diminished his motivation.

“There are plenty of reasons to stay motivated if you look for them,” he said. “At this level, you must be self-motivated. Whatever stage you are at, your focus should always be on reaching the next level.”

Shami marks 100th first-class match with Duleep Trophy triumph

Shami claimed two key wickets, dismissing Ravichandran Smaran and Sheikh Rasheed, as East Zone secured the Duleep Trophy through a first-innings lead. The victory also marked his 100th appearance in first-class cricket.

“Achieving this in my 100th match—and in a winning Duleep Trophy final—is particularly special,” Shami said. “East Zone has not won this trophy for a very long time, and you could see the effort we put in. Every player gave his heart and soul to the campaign. To achieve this in such conditions and heat was outstanding. Whether it is your first match or your 100th, the effort and approach remain the same.”

He added that the level of competition does not alter his commitment when representing a team.

“When you wear the badge on your chest, the level of cricket does not matter,” Shami said. “If you play for that pride, the hunger is there naturally, and your desire to fight only grows.”

“My mindset is simple: whenever I get the opportunity to play, I want to make it count and fulfil my responsibilities to the team.”

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