Gavaskar Slams Shami for Dropped Catch: ‘No Conviction in the Attempt’

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 India vs Australia semi-final saw a turning point when Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami dropped a sharp catch of Australian captain Steve Smith. The dropped catch invited scathing criticism from former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, who questioned the commitment of Shami in going for the catch.

The incident occurred in the fourth ball of the 22nd over when Smith, who was playing at 36 along with Marnus Labuschagne, was intent on reconstructing Australia’s innings. The dropped catch helped Smith go on with his innings and eventually achieve a well-built half-century.

Gavaskar Criticizes Shami for Lack of Conviction

While ex-Pakistan captain and broadcaster Ramiz Raja conceded that the catch was tough, he pointed to the pace and power with which the ball approached Shami. Unlike him, Gavaskar was rather damning, suggesting Shami wasn’t convinced about the attempt.

This is what they said during commentary:

Ramiz Raja: “A difficult chance, this was hit hard. Travis Head’s was a scoop, this came from the middle of the blade. Hardly had any time to react. It hit him on the wrist I think.”

Sunil Gavaskar: “There seem to be no conviction going for that. He is just putting his hand up in hope, you can see that, the way the hand is positioned, not looking to actually catch it. No conviction in the attempt. No wonder it was dropped.”

Shami looked irritated after losing control of the ball. The opportunity went awry as Smith went on to register a half-century, establishing solidity in Australia’s innings.

Australia Steady After Early Wickets

Although he lost Labuschagne to Ravindra Jadeja for 29 in the next over from 36 balls, Smith continued his performance well. His fifty came in the 26th over in 68 deliveries. Australia, in the same match, won the toss and decided to play first at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.