New Delhi: Before IPL 2024, the cricket lovers couldn’t keep their excitement low when they saw new haircuts for cricket stars MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, both of whom were consulting with the renowned stylist Aalim Hakim. But what has really managed to capture the attention of the internet is the latest transformation of Mohammed Shami. Sharing a sneak-peek of his new look on Instagram, Hakim’s new aversion, Shami, has been going around the internet with an energetic, fresh vibe.
The style overhaul of Shami comes on the eve of his return to competitive cricket after a major injury. The Indian pacer, who underwent surgery on his ankle in February, is hitting the gym hard to get himself up and running. Even though the ace bowling ace hasn’t featured since the November ODI World Cup final, he is now seeking a comeback of sorts, albeit cautiously by the Indian team management.
Recent reports suggest that Shami is unlikely to play for India in their upcoming series against Bangladesh as the team management is looking toward getting him fully recovered and ready for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Instead, it is highly expected that Shami will return on October 11 for the Ranji Trophy opener, with an aim for match fitness and domestic experience to get him into the national squad for the Test series against New Zealand.
Road to redemption Shami began bowling at the end of July 2024 under cover at the National Cricket Academy. By all accounts, he began promisingly but was not named in any of the Duleep Trophy squads, indicative of continued caution over the state of his fitness. It is also learned that Shami will be called for the practice matches at NCA if he continues to bowl well.
His new look, coupled with news of his ongoing recovery process, has added much to the anticipation of his comeback, illustrating a personal transformation and the readiness required to get back into the cricketing elite.
