Indian pace veteran Mohammed Shami, who turned 34 on Tuesday, has established himself as a match-winner across all three formats, particularly in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and ICC tournaments.
Since making his memorable international debut in 2013, Shami has earned a reputation for his speed, precision, and ability to deliver in crucial moments. Here’s a look at some of his most remarkable records and accomplishments:
1. Memorable Test Debut
- Five-Wicket Haul: Shami is one of the few Indian bowlers to take a five-wicket haul on his Test debut. In the 2013 match against West Indies at Eden Gardens, he took 5/47, showcasing his lethal pace and accuracy. He became only the third Indian pacer to achieve this feat on debut.
2. India’s Go-To Bowler in World Cups
- Outstanding World Cup Record: Shami has been India’s reliable performer in the ICC Cricket World Cups, amassing 55 wickets in just 18 matches. This makes him the fifth-highest wicket-taker in World Cup history and India’s top wicket-getter in the tournament.
- Hat-Trick Hero: He became the second Indian to claim a World Cup hat-trick, achieving this milestone against Afghanistan in the 2019 World Cup.
- Fastest to 50 World Cup Wickets: Shami holds the record for the fastest bowler to reach 50 World Cup wickets, achieving the feat in just 17 innings during the 2023 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand.
- Best ODI Spell: His spell of 7/57 in the same match is the best by an Indian in both the World Cup and ODIs. Shami’s performance in the 2023 World Cup was exceptional, finishing as the highest wicket-taker with 24 wickets in seven matches at an average of 10.70, including three five-wicket hauls.
- Record for Most Five-Wicket Hauls in World Cups: Shami has the most five-wicket hauls in World Cup history, with four in total.
- Fastest Indian to 100 ODI Wickets: Shami became the fastest Indian to reach 100 ODI wickets, achieving this in just 56 matches.
3. Indian Premier League (IPL) Success
Consistent Performer: Shami has been a consistent performer in the IPL, with 127 wickets in 110 matches. He has played for Kolkata Knight Riders, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, and Gujarat Titans.
2023 IPL Purple Cap Winner: In 2023, Shami won the Purple Cap for being the highest wicket-taker in the tournament, claiming 28 wickets in 17 matches at an average of 18.64.
Memorable Super Over: One of his standout IPL moments came in 2020 when he defended six runs in a Super Over against Mumbai Indians while playing for Punjab Kings.
IPL Title Winner: Shami also played a crucial role in Gujarat Titans’ 2022 IPL title victory.
4. Formidable Pace Duo with Bumrah
Shami, alongside Jasprit Bumrah, has formed one of the most formidable fast-bowling pairs in world cricket. Their partnership has been instrumental in India’s success across all formats, particularly in Test matches and World Cups.
As Shami celebrates his 34th birthday, his contributions to Indian cricket are widely recognized and appreciated. His ability to rise to the occasion, especially in big matches, solidifies his status as one of the greatest fast bowlers in Indian cricket history. Fans and teammates alike look forward to more of Shami’s match-winning performances in the years to come.
