Mohammad Shami received Arjuna Award with 25 others player

India’s fast bowler, Mohammed Shami, was honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award on January 9, 2024. The award presented by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, in acknowledgment of Shami’s stellar performance in the ODI World Cup 2023. The National Sports Award Ceremony took place in Rashtrapati Bhawan on Tuesday, 9 January 2024. This recognition is a testament to Shami’s remarkable contribution to Indian cricket.

Exceptional Performance in ODI World Cup 2023

Shami emerged as the standout bowler in the ODI World Cup 2023, concluding the tournament with an impressive tally of 24 wickets from just 7 matches. His noteworthy performance played a pivotal role in India’s campaign, earning him accolades and ultimately the Arjuna Award. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recommended Shami’s name for the award, acknowledging his significant impact on the world stage.

Shami’s Reaction to the Arjuna Award

Expressing his joy, Shami stated, “This award is a dream, life passes, and people are not able to win this award. I am happy that I have been nominated for this award.” The recognition is a culmination of Shami’s dedication and hard work, making him one of the key figures in Indian cricket.

Impactful Comeback in the Tournament

Shami’s journey in the World Cup took an unexpected turn as he initially not named in the playing XI for the first four matches. His opportunity came when Hardik Pandya suffered a severe ankle injury against Bangladesh on October 19. Shami seized the moment, making an instant impact by picking up 5 wickets against New Zealand on his return. From there, he went on a record-breaking run, finishing with 24 wickets in the tournament, surpassing even the renowned Jasprit Bumrah.

Sheetal Devi received Arjuna Award

President Droupadi Murmu awards Sheetal Devi the Arjuna Award 2023 in recognition of her outstanding achievements in Para Archery.

She hails from Loidhar village in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. Sheetal Devi achieved remarkable success at her debut Asian Para Games in Hangzhou in October 2023. She clinched an extraordinary three medals, securing two golds in the mixed doubles and women’s individual categories, along with a silver in the women’s doubles compound event.

Arjuna Award Ceremony

The Arjuna Awards ceremony saw a total of 26 athletes being recognized for their exceptional performances in 2023. The list prominently featured athletes who excelled at the Asian Games 2023. India’s outstanding performance in China during the competition resulted in a historic tally of 107 medals. This achievement shattered the country’s previous best of 70 medals achieved during the Jakarta 2018 Asian Games.

Historic Achievement at Asian Games 2023

India’s stellar performance in the Asian Games 2023 marked a historic milestone, surpassing the previous record of 70 medals. The Hangzhou Games witnessed India clinching an astounding total of 12 medals on the final day, including 6 gold, 4 silver, and 2 bronze medals. This remarkable feat propelled India’s overall tally to over 100 medals for the first time in the competition’s history.

Arjuna Award ‘s Significance

The Arjuna Award, being the second-highest sporting honor in India after the Khel Ratna Award, holds immense significance for athletes. President Murmu presented the awards, including the one conferred upon Shami, during the ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on January 9.

Conclusion

Mohammed Shami’s receipt of the Arjuna Award reflects not only his personal achievements but also the broader success of Indian cricket on the global stage. The ceremony acknowledged the dedication and excellence of athletes, highlighting the historic achievements at the Asian Games 2023. As Shami and other awardees bask in the recognition. It serves as a moment of pride for Indian sports and a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes.

List of Players who got Arjuna Award: