NATIONAL: Several members of the Indian cricket fraternity congratulated pacer Mohammed Shami after he received the Arjuna Award from President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony here.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the governing body of cricket in India, took to X and said it is “memorable moment” for the pacer.

“A memorable moment for #TeamIndia pacer Mohd. Shami who is conferred with the prestigious Arjuna Award by the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu at the National Sports Awards #NationalSportsAwards | @rashtrapatibhvn| @MdShamill,” it said.

Star India batter Virat Kohli congratulated Shami by commenting on his Instagram post. “Mubarak ho lala,” Virat said.

Former Indian batter and captain Mithali Raj congratulated Shami and other athletes who received the Arjuna Award, calling it a “testament to their soaring achievements for India”.

“Heartiest congratulations to @MdShamill and the other 25 athletes who have received the Arjuna Award for their sporting excellence in 2023! This award is a testament to their soaring achievements for India. #ArjunaAward,” she said.

The Arjuna Award, India’s second-highest sports honour, is given for good performance over the previous four years and for showing qualities of leadership, sportsmanship, and a sense of discipline.

Shami ended as the leading wicket-taker in last year’s ICC Cricket World Cup in India with 24 scalps and broke several records. He was crucial in helping India reach the finals. He was also part of the team which finished as runners-up in the ICC World Test Championship 2021-23. (With inputs from the agency)