India, March 14 -- In Jasprit Bumrah's absence, Mohammed Shami led India's pace battery in the recently concluded Champions Trophy 2025. The veteran pacer bagged nine wickets in five matches, and was ever-reliant for Rohit Sharma and Co. throughout the campaign.

In the semi-finals against Australia, Shami bagged three wickets, and then bagged a dismissal in the victorious final against New Zealand. Cooper Connolly, who slotted in as an opening all-rounder against India, as Travis Head was injured, lost his wicket early to Shami during the semi-final.

Speaking to reporters, Connolly opened up on his Champions Trophy experience, and revealed his experience on facing Shami.

"As a kid, you always want to represent your country, and to walk...