March 8, 2025: As Team India gears up for the ICC Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in Dubai on March 9, all eyes will be on pacer Mohammed Shami, who is on the brink of making history. With his remarkable performances in ICC knockout stages, Shami is just one five-wicket haul away from surpassing Zaheer Khan’s record for the most wickets by an Indian bowler in ICC knockout stages in ODIs.
Shami has been one of India’s standout performers in this edition of the Champions Trophy, claiming eight wickets in four matches at an impressive average of 19.87. His best performance came against Pakistan, where he claimed 5/53, helping India secure a dominant position. He currently stands as India’s highest wicket-taker in the tournament, sitting second overall behind New Zealand’s Matt Henry, who has taken 10 wickets.
In ICC ODI knockout matches, including both World Cups and the Champions Trophy, Shami has taken 13 wickets in five matches at an average of 19.76, with his best figures being a stunning 7/57 against New Zealand in the 2023 World Cup semifinals. His performance in that match was one for the ages, delivering a match-winning spell to take India to the final.
However, Shami’s experience in finals is somewhat limited. The only final he has participated in was during the 50-over World Cup at home, where he took one wicket for 47 runs in seven overs against Australia. Despite his efforts, India lost the match as Australia chased down 241 runs, largely thanks to a sensational counter-attacking century by Travis Head.
Shami, who is India’s top wicket-taker in ICC events, has proven time and again that he thrives in high-pressure situations. With 63 wickets in 22 ICC ODI matches, averaging an exceptional 14.33, Shami is a key weapon in India’s bowling attack. His five five-wicket hauls are the most by any bowler in ICC ODI events, further underlining his importance in the side.
With India eyeing a Champions Trophy title and a chance to avenge previous losses to New Zealand in the 2019 World Cup semifinal and the 2021 World Test Championship final, all eyes will be on Shami to deliver a match-winning performance once again.
Will Shami land a knockout punch against the Kiwis and remind them of his heroics at Wankhede Stadium, or will New Zealand’s solid performance under Mitchell Santner lead them to another title? The final promises to be a thrilling contest.