Mohammed Shami ensured Jasprit Bumrah’s absence was never felt right from the first Test of the ongoing home season.

Despite off-the-field issues that have been bugging him for more than a year, Shami has been superbly consistent in delivering for the team. Currently, he’s been the one to pick up the maximum number of wickets on most occasions, bowling in tandem with Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav.

For Shami, enjoying each other’s success is what keeps the pacers going. And if they get tired, the fun element just gets “better”.

“The more we get tired, the better fun we have. We push each other and we try to enjoy each other’s success,” Shami told the official broadcaster after India’s crushing win in the first Test.

Shami also acknowledged bowling alongside Ishant and Umesh made the job easier for him. “I bowl quite well alongside Ishant and Umesh. That makes things easier for me,” he said.

Asked about his way of bowling, Shami prefers to be modest. “What I try to do is to pitch it on the good-length spot… Nothing special… I just try to execute a good line and length, that’s it,” he said.

What stands out for Shami is his seam position, feels bowling coach Bharat Arun.

“Shami has always had the speed. But I think he presents probably the best seam position in world cricket .

“It’s not fair to compare, but if you look at bowlers all round, Shami has got probably the best seam position. And one way to maintain the speed is he has done a lot of work on his fitness.”

Ishant said it’s difficult for him to explain his recent purple patch. “I have played quite a lot. I am only 31 but having played almost 100 games, the body does feel old. The bowling is taking a toll on my body, but I’m enjoying it, trying out different variations.”