Mohammed Shami breaks Starc's record: Fastest to 200 ODI wickets in cricket history

On February 20, 2025, Mohammed Shami achieved a remarkable feat by claiming his 200th wicket in One Day Internationals (ODIs) during the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy against Bangladesh. Shami reached this milestone in just 5,126 balls, making him the fastest bowler in world cricket to do so and breaking Mitchell Starc's previous record of 5,240 balls. This achievement solidifies Shami's status as one of the premier fast bowlers in the game today.

Dominating Performance Against Bangladesh

Shami's record-breaking wicket came in the 43rd over when he dismissed Bangladesh's Jaker Ali for 68 runs with a well-disguised slower ball. The ball caught Ali off guard as he attempted a drive and was caught by Virat Kohli at long-on. Shami’s exceptional bowling not only helped him secure his milestone but also contributed to his impressive figures of 5/53 in the match. His performance played a crucial role in restricting Bangladesh to 228 runs, showcasing his skill and experience on the international stage.

Fastest Indian Bowler to 200 Wickets

With this achievement, Shami has also become the fastest Indian bowler to reach 200 ODI wickets in terms of matches played—achieving it in just 104 ODIs, surpassing Ajit Agarkar's previous record of 133 matches. This places him joint-second fastest globally alongside Pakistan’s Saqlain Mushtaq. The speedster's journey to this milestone has been marked by consistent performances and resilience after returning from injury.

A New Era for Indian Pace Attack

Shami's return to form is particularly significant for India as they navigate through the Champions Trophy without their premier bowler Jasprit Bumrah. His ability to lead an inexperienced pace attack has alleviated concerns about India's bowling depth. Shami’s experience and skill have proven invaluable as he continues to deliver exceptional performances on the world stage.

Conclusion: A Legacy in the Making

As Mohammed Shami celebrates this historic achievement, he not only cements his place among cricketing greats but also sets a benchmark for future fast bowlers. His journey reflects determination and excellence in a sport that demands both physical and mental fortitude. With more matches ahead in the tournament, fans eagerly anticipate how Shami will continue to shape his legacy as one of India’s finest bowlers.