“No disrespect towards the batter”- Tabraiz Shamsi talks upon his famous ‘shoe-call’ celebration.
In the rain-affected second T20I encounter between South Africa and India at St George Park in Gqeberha on December 12, Tabraiz Shamsi emerged as the standout performer for his team. His exceptional bowling display, yielding figures of 1/18, played a pivotal role in South Africa’s five-wicket victory via the DLS method.
While Shamsi’s cricketing prowess rightfully earned him recognition, it was his distinctive ‘shoe-call’ celebration that captured the attention of the global cricket community. The left-arm spinner showcased this trademark celebration after dismissing Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav. Although the celebration has faced criticism from some quarters, Shamsi has clarified that it is intended as a ‘fun celebration.’
In the aftermath of his match-winning contribution, Shamsi’s celebration has sparked discussions within the cricketing fraternity.
Shamsi wrote on ‘X’ “It’s just a fun celebration which a lot of kids enjoy and means no disrespect towards the batter… I’ve mentioned that countless times before. All you guys hurling abuse are just giving other genuine cricket-loving fans from your country a bad name.. cheers.”