Umesh Kumar Reveals Mohammed Shami’s Suicidal Thoughts During Turbulent Phase on Podcast
Amroha, 24th July 2024: India’s star pacer Mohammed Shami has overcome numerous challenges throughout his career. Despite being India’s leading wicket-taker in the last three ODI World Cups, his personal life has frequently made headlines.
The 33-year-old bowler from Uttar Pradesh went through a separation from his wife, Hasin Jahan, who accused him of domestic violence and match-fixing in a police complaint. Though Shami was eventually cleared of these allegations, his friend Umesh Kumar revealed on Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast that Shami had contemplated suicide during this difficult period.
This revelation highlights the immense pressure and emotional turmoil Shami endured while navigating personal and professional hurdles. Umesh shared, “Shami was battling everything during that phase. He stayed with me at my house. But when the fixing allegations with Pakistan surfaced and led to an investigation, he was devastated. He told me, ‘I can handle everything but not accusations of betraying my country.'”
Umesh further recalled, “It was reported that he considered doing something drastic that night. Around 4 a.m., I woke up to get some water and saw him standing on the balcony. We were on the 19th floor. I realized what was happening. That night felt like the longest of Shami’s career. Later, when we talked, he received a message saying the investigating committee had cleared him. He was probably happier that day than if he had won a World Cup.”
Recovering from an Achilles injury and surgery, Shami shared an image of himself training intensely in the nets, with a caption reflecting his determination to return strong and make a significant impact for the Indian team: “Ball in hand and obsession in my heart, ready to turn the game. #shami #mdshami #mdshami11,” he posted on social media.
Shami’s most recent competitive match was in November, representing India in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup final against Australia in Ahmedabad, which unfortunately ended in a loss for India. Shami concluded the tournament as the highest wicket-taker, securing 24 wickets in 7 matches, including three five-wicket hauls.
