Mohammed Shami's Courageous Confession: Battling Suicidal Thoughts and Domestic Turmoil

Indian cricket star Mohammed Shami has opened up about a period of profound personal struggle, revealing that he grappled with suicidal thoughts and faced intense domestic turmoil between 2015 and 2018. In a candid Instagram Live session with teammate Rohit Sharma, Shami bravely shared the darkest chapter of his life, shedding light on the immense mental health challenges he endured.

The fast bowler recounted how, for a significant stretch during those years, he was plagued by constant thoughts of ending his life.

This agonizing period coincided with a string of personal and professional setbacks, including a serious ankle injury in 2015 that kept him out of the game for an extended period, followed by highly publicized allegations of domestic violence leveled against him by his wife, Hasin Jahan.

Shami described a feeling of overwhelming despair, where everything seemed to crumble around him.

The emotional toll of the public accusations, the legal battles, and the personal betrayal was immense. He admitted that had his family not been by his side, he might not have overcome these formidable challenges. It was his elder brother, particularly, who served as his unwavering anchor during this storm.

His brother's vigilance and steadfast support were crucial.

He would constantly monitor Shami, encouraging him to stay positive and reminding him of his talent and passion for cricket. "I had thought of committing suicide three times during this period. My family, particularly my brother, helped me a lot. My brother kept a watch on me, and I was encouraged to play cricket again.

My family kept talking to me and told me to focus on cricket," Shami revealed.

The allegations against Shami were severe, with his wife filing a police complaint accusing him of domestic violence, attempt to murder, and criminal intimidation. He was booked under IPC Section 498A (domestic violence) and 354A (sexual harassment).

The controversy even led the BCCI to temporarily withhold his central contract, though he was later cleared after an anti-corruption unit investigation.

Compounding his struggles, Shami also failed a Yo-Yo fitness test, adding another layer of frustration to an already tumultuous time. Yet, through all the adversity, the constant encouragement and love from his family, especially his brother, slowly pulled him back from the brink.

They helped him channel his focus back to his sport, reminding him of the joy and purpose cricket brought to his life.

Today, Mohammed Shami stands as a testament to resilience. Having successfully navigated through those dark times, he has emerged stronger, both personally and professionally.

His bowling has reached new heights, and he has become a pivotal member of the Indian cricket team across all formats. As he spends time with his family during the current lockdown, Shami reflects on his journey, profoundly grateful for the support that helped him find his way back to light and renewed purpose.