Mohammed Shami, one of India’s premier fast bowlers, has faced significant challenges both on and off the field. Despite being India’s leading wicket-taker in the last three ODI World Cups, his personal life has been marred by controversy.
Shami’s tumultuous separation from his wife, Hasin Jahan, made headlines when she filed a police complaint against him for domestic violence. She also accused him of match-fixing after allegedly receiving money from a Pakistani woman.
While Shami was cleared of these allegations by authorities, his friend and fellow cricketer Umesh Kumar revealed on a podcast that Shami contemplated suicide during that time.
“Shami was shattered when the fixing allegations broke out,” said Kumar. “He said he could tolerate anything but not accusations of betraying his country.”
Kumar recalled an incident where he found Shami standing on the balcony of their 19th-floor apartment at 4 AM. “I understood what was happening,” said Kumar. “That night was the longest of Shami’s career.”
Shami later received a clean chit from the investigating committee, which brought him immense relief. “He was probably happier that day than he would have been if he had won a World Cup,” added Kumar.
Shami himself opened up about his struggles during that period. “When you know the other person’s actions are invalid, you should not leave your priorities,” he said. “If I had not been the Mohammed Shami I am today, no one would have cared about my situation.”
Shami’s resilience and determination have been instrumental in his recovery. He has continued to perform at the highest level, proving that even in the face of adversity, one can overcome challenges and achieve success.
