Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai

Dubai, Feb 22: India’s premier fast bowler Mohammed Shami has credited his unique fitness regimen eating just one meal a day for maintaining peak performance. The 34-year-old pacer, who has been instrumental in India’s Champions Trophy campaign, revealed that he abstains from breakfast and lunch, relying solely on dinner to fuel his body.

"After 2015, I only have one meal a day. I only have dinner; no breakfast, no lunch. It is very difficult at first, but once you get used to it, it becomes easy," Shami said in a conversation with Navjot Singh Sidhu on Star Sports.

Shami's disciplined approach has played a crucial role in his recent success. He was the standout bowler in India's tournament opener against Bangladesh, taking five wickets and becoming the fastest Indian to reach 200 ODI wickets.

His comeback follows a 14-month injury layoff after suffering an ankle injury in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia. During rehabilitation, Shami’s weight had touched 90kg, forcing him to shed nine kilograms through a rigorous fitness routine.

"I do not crave delicacies. I stay away from sweets and things one shouldn’t eat," Shami added. However, he admitted to an occasional indulgence, saying, "And as far as biryani is concerned, sometimes it's okay."

Shami will be a key player in India’s much-anticipated Champions Trophy clash against Pakistan on Sunday, with his fitness and form being crucial for India’s campaign.