Mohammed Shami: Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami's place in the 2027 ODI World Cup seems highly unlikely. However, his record in the tournament is truly remarkable.
Mohammed Shami's ODI World Cup Record: Mohammed Shami may not be in Team India's plans at the moment, but his record in the ODI World Cup remains impressive. Shami holds the record for most wickets taken by an Indian in the ODI World Cup. He has taken 55 wickets in just 18 matches.
Shami shines in the World Cup
Shami has played for India in the 2015, 2019, and 2023 ODI World Cups. Across these three tournaments, he played a total of 18 matches and took 55 wickets. His bowling average was 13.52, meaning he conceded approximately 13.5 runs per wicket.
His most impressive performance came in the 2023 World Cup. Shami played only seven matches in the tournament, but dismissed 24 batsmen. This made him the highest wicket-taker in the tournament.
Hardik's injury boosts Shami's fortunes for the 2023 World Cup
Shami initially missed out on a place in the playing eleven for the 2023 World Cup. He earned his place in the team after Hardik Pandya was injured, and there was no looking back.
The semi-final against New Zealand became one of the most memorable matches of Shami's career. He shattered the New Zealand batting line-up by taking seven wickets in that match. In the same tournament, he set the record for the most wickets among Indian bowlers in a World Cup.
Zaheer Khan and Srinath also lag behind
Before Shami, Zaheer Khan held the record for most wickets for India in the World Cup, with 44. Javagal Srinath also has 44 wickets. However, Shami surpassed both legends by taking 55 wickets in just 18 matches.
Shami's specialty isn't just taking wickets. He's also consistently made an impact in big matches. Whether it's swing with the new ball or reverse swing with the old ball, Shami has troubled batsmen with his bowling in a variety of conditions.
Out of the team, the record still stands
Whether Shami returns to the team will be decided by the selectors, captain, and team management. However, his statistics are hard to ignore. With 55 wickets for India in the ODI World Cup, Mohammed Shami remains the leading wicket-taker.
This is the reason that, despite being out of the current team, this record of Shami will continue to remind us of his brilliant World Cup career.
