In the second ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match, Team India’s ace fast bowler Mohammed Shami made an incredible record in the history of cricket. Through his exceptional bowling against Bangladesh, Shami not only achieved 200 wickets in One Day Internationals (ODIs) but also made a new world record in doing so with the least balls bowled.
A Record-Breaking Achievement
Shami’s feat is nothing less than historic. He picked up his 200th ODI wicket after bowling a mere 5,126 balls, thereby beating some of cricket’s all-time greats in the process. In doing so, Shami became the quickest bowler to take 200 wickets in ODIs, setting a new record that leaves some of the game’s all-time great bowlers behind.
Before, the mark was held by Australian Mitchell Starc, who got to 200 wickets after 5,240 balls. Starc, who is recognized for his speed and precision, was followed by Pakistan’s Saqlain Mushtaq, who got 200 wickets after 5,451 balls. Another world-class fast bowler, Brett Lee, attained the same achievement after bowling 5,640 balls.
Breaking Down the Numbers
Shami achieved his 200th wicket in his 104th match in ODIs, which was a tie with the second-least number of matches required to achieve the mark. Shami and Saqlain Mushtaq were together the fastest duo to reach the 200-wicket mark as they did so in 104 matches. The least number of matches required to reach 200 wickets still belongs to Mitchell Starc, who achieved this in only 102 matches.
This implies that Shami has become part of a select group of bowlers who have done this phenomenal stuff in fewer than 110 matches. New Zealand pacer Trent Boult, among the best fast bowlers in world cricket, completed 200 ODI wickets in 107 matches, joining the list of third-fastest to do so.
The List of Fastest to 200 ODI Wicks
– Mohammed Shami – 5,126 balls (104 matches)
– Mitchell Starc – 5,240 balls (102 matches)
– Saqlain Mushtaq – 5,451 balls (104 matches)
– Brett Lee – 5,640 balls (112 matches)
– Trent Boult – 5,783 balls (107 matches)
– Waqar Younis – 5,883 balls
A Glimpse into Shami’s Career
Shami’s success is the result of years of perseverance and commitment. With his pace, swing, and pressure performances, Shami has been India’s most consistent fast bowler for years. His record-breaking show in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is a testament to his performance and consistency on the global platform.
While Shami’s remarkable achievement in terms of the number of balls bowled is certainly impressive, his place among the fastest bowlers to reach 200 wickets in terms of matches played is equally noteworthy. Achieving such milestones in just 104 matches puts Shami among the elite company of the game’s top fast bowlers.
Looking Ahead
With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 still unfolding, fans and experts alike are eagerly looking forward to more of Shami’s fiery performances with the ball. His record-breaking feat not only strengthens his reputation as one of the best in the business but also highlights his significant contribution to Indian cricket, especially in the fast-bowling department.
In the ever-competitive world of cricket, Shami’s achievement adds another feather to his cap, and it will be exciting to see how long his record will stand as other bowlers aim to match or surpass his milestones. But for now, Mohammed Shami is truly one of the fastest and most accomplished ODI bowlers in the world.
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