As the IPL 2025 mega auction approaches, discussions are heating up about players’ prospects of being picked by the ten franchises in the highly anticipated event. Among the buzz, Indian commentator and former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar’s remarks about ace pacer Mohammed Shami’s potential auction dynamics have stirred debate, followed by Shami’s sharp and witty response.
Speaking on Star Sports, Manjrekar shared his prediction regarding Shami’s price tag, suggesting that while the pacer is immensely talented, his injury history might deter teams from investing heavily in him. He highlighted the balance franchises must strike between Shami’s proven abilities and the risks associated with his fitness.
Manjrekar said, “There will definitely be interest from teams, but given Shami’s injury history — and this recent one took a significant amount of time to recover — there’s always a concern about a potential breakdown during the season.”
Reacting to these remarks, Shami, known for his fiery performances and candid demeanor, took to Instagram with a stinging yet humorous reply. In an Instagram story that quickly grabbed headlines in the cricketing community.
Shami mocked Manjrekar’s prediction, saying, “Baba Ki Jay Hooooo. Thoda sa gyan apne future ke liye bhi bacha lo kaam aayega Sanjay ji. Kisi ko future janna ho to sir se mile.”
Shami’s response carried a playful and sarcastic tone, as he humorously elevated Manjrekar to a prophetic figure. By saying, ‘Baba Ki Jay Hoo,’ Shami implied that Sanjay seemed to have deep knowledge of the future. He cheekily suggested saving some wisdom for his own future while inviting others to consult ‘Sir.’ This witty retort showcased Shami’s confidence and sharp sense of humor in addressing criticism.
Meanwhile, Shami recently returned to competitive cricket after a prolonged injury-induced absence, impressing with a seven-wicket haul for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy against Madhya Pradesh on November 13th. His stellar performance highlighted his fitness and form, although the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and selectors remain cautious about rushing his return to international cricket.
Shami is now set to feature in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy as part of his continued comeback. While his immediate focus is on domestic performances, he may join the Indian Test team during the latter stages of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting from November 22 till the second week of January 2025.