Mohammed Shami on Thursday achieved a historic milestone during the ongoing ICC ODI World Cup 2023 match against Sri Lanka at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. Shami's remarkable performance with the ball catapulted him to become India's highest wicket-taker in the tournament, marking an exceptional feat in his career.
Shami's journey to this record-breaking moment commenced when he secured his fifth wicket of the match. With this achievement, he surpassed the previous record held by the legendary bowlers, Zaheer Khan and Javagal Srinath, who had both accumulated 44 wickets in ODI World Cups. Shami's tally soared to 45 wickets, firmly establishing him as the new record holder.
His bowling prowess has not only earned him the top position in Indian cricket history but also distinguishes him as the proud holder of the record for the most five-wicket hauls in One Day Internationals (ODIs) among Indian bowlers. Shami has delivered four extraordinary five-wicket hauls, a testament to his consistency and remarkable talent. Notably, three of these remarkable five-fors were achieved on the grand stage of the World Cup, a feat shared only with Australia's Mitchell Starc.
In addition to setting these individual records, Mohammed Shami also etched his name into the annals of ODI World Cup history. He now stands among the top 10 highest wicket-takers in the history of the tournament, a prestigious list led by the Australian legend, Glenn McGrath, who boasts an impressive 71 wickets. Among the contemporary international cricketers, Shami ranks third on the list, with only Mitchell Starc and Trent Boult surpassing him, having claimed 56 and 49 wickets respectively.
Shami's performance in the match against Sri Lanka was nothing short of sensational. He concluded his spell with extraordinary figures of 5 for 18 in just five overs, leaving the opposition in disarray. India secured a resounding victory, outclassing Sri Lanka by an astonishing margin of 302 runs. This monumental win not only showcased Shami's exceptional talent but also cemented India's place in the semifinals of the World Cup.
As the Indian cricket fraternity and fans across the world celebrated Mohammed Shami's historic achievement, it was clear that his name would forever be associated with excellence and records in the realm of ODI cricket. His incredible journey, filled with dedication and exceptional performances, continues to be an inspiration for aspiring cricketers and a source of pride for his nation. Shami's stellar achievements stand as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport and his place as a true cricketing icon.
(With agency inputs)
