Mohammed Shami Casts Vote, Urges Citizens to Exercise Franchise

Mohammed Shami Urges Citizens to Vote, Expresses Gratitude for PM Modi's Praise

Indian star pacer Mohammed Shami cast his vote in Amroha during the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on Friday. After exercising his franchise, Shami emphasized the importance of voting and encouraged citizens to "elect the government of their choice."

"Every citizen has the right to cast their votes and elect the government of their choice," Shami told the media. "It is a matter of pride for me that PM Narendra Modi took my name during his speech (in Amroha) and praised me and my game."

Shami's vote came as part of the second phase of Lok Sabha polls, which saw voting held in eight parliamentary constituencies of Uttar Pradesh: Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh Nagar, Aligarh, Mathura, and Bulandshahr.

Earlier this year, PM Modi had wished Shami a speedy recovery after the pacer underwent a successful operation on his Achilles tendon. Shami is currently undergoing rehabilitation from the injury.

On April 19, Shami provided an injury update to his fans, expressing his eagerness to make a comeback. "Injuries don't define you, your comeback will... Can't wait to be back out there with my team!" he wrote on Instagram.

Shami is not participating in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season, where he was expected to play for the Gujarat Titans (GT). He also missed the five-match Test series against England at home in January-March due to his injury.

The 33-year-old last represented India in the ODI World Cup final against Australia in November. Despite playing through pain, Shami emerged as the tournament's highest wicket-taker, claiming 24 wickets in just seven matches.

Shami's performance in the World Cup was a testament to his resilience and determination. He missed the subsequent tour to South Africa and the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan in January due to his injury.

Tags: #MohammedShami, #LokSabhaElections, #Voting, #PMModi, #Cricket