(AFP Photo)
In a historic feat, veteran Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has become the first cricketer ever to reach 50 wickets in ICC T20 World Cup history.
Shakib Al Hasan showcased his prowess during Bangladesh’s crucial ICC T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8 match against India led by Rohit Sharma. The Bangla Tigers, facing a must-win situation to stay alive in the tournament held across the West Indies following the USA leg, faced tough odds against a determined Indian side.
However, India dominated the match, securing a commanding victory that bolstered their position in Group 1 of the Super 8s. With this win, Rohit Sharma’s team remains unbeaten and now gears up to face Australia in their final Super 8 encounter in St. Lucia.
India’s impeccable record places them in a strong position as the only undefeated team in their group, following Afghanistan’s earlier triumph over Australia. As they prepare to take on the Aussies, India aims to maintain their flawless streak and secure a spot in the tournament’s next phase.
For Shakib Al Hasan, who is participating in his ninth ICC T20 World Cup and possibly his final appearance in the tournament, the milestone of 50 wickets marks a significant achievement in his illustrious career. He will seek to cap off his campaign on a high note, adding another accolade to his distinguished cricketing journey.
Shakib Al Hasan achieves a milestone by claiming his 50th wicket in T20 World Cup history.
Shakib Al Hasan’s performance yesterday underscored why he’s considered a legend in cricket. In the ICC T20 World Cup, renowned for its fast and spin bowling stalwarts like Malinga, Lee, Broad, Afridi, and Bumrah, Shakib stands out. His left-arm off-spin mastery, exemplified by dismissing Rohit Sharma for 23 off 11 balls, made him the first to reach 50 wickets in the tournament. Playing his 42nd T20 WC match, Shakib boasts a remarkable bowling average of 19.38 and a strike rate of 6.81.
This milestone is unprecedented, surpassing the closest contenders like Shahid Afridi, who retired with 39 wickets from 34 matches after leading Pakistan to victory in the 2009 T20 WC. Sri Lanka’s 2014 T20 WC-winning captain, Lasith Malinga, follows with 38 wickets from 31 matches, while current Sri Lankan captain Wanindu Hasaranga ranks fourth with 37 wickets from just 19 matches.
Sharing the fifth spot, former Pakistan spinner Saeed Ajmal and New Zealand pacer Tim Southee have 36 wickets each. Shakib Al Hasan’s achievement solidifies his status as a cricketing legend and a pivotal figure in the history of the ICC T20 World Cup.
Leading wicket-takers in the history of the T20 World Cup:
– Shakib Al Hasan: 50 wickets, Bangladesh
– Shahid Afridi: 39 wickets, Pakistan
– Lasith Malinga: 38 wickets, Sri Lanka
– Wanindu Hasaranga: 37 wickets, Sri Lanka
– Saeed Ajmal: 36 wickets, Pakistan
– Tim Southee: 36 wickets, New Zealand
