Mohammad Shami became the 11th Indian bowler to reach the 200 Test wickets landmark.
India speedster Mohammad Shami on Tuesday (December 28) took his 200th wicket in Test cricket. He achieved the feat after dismissing Kagiso Rabada on Day 3 of the first Test against South Africa in Centurion.
Shami looked towards the sky with both arms up in the air while celebrating his 200th Test scalp. The pacer, in an interview with bowling coach Paras Mhambrey after Day 3's play, revealed that the celebration was for his late father, Tousif Ali.
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The 31-year-old's father had passed away in 2017 after suffering a heart attack. "The celebration after reaching the 200 wickets mark was for my father, he had passed away in 2017. The entire credit for my success goes to him, I had a very good upbringing. I just wanted to credit my father as he was there for me throughout," Shami spoke in a video on BCCI.TV.
Indian cricket team succeeded in getting a lead of 130 runs after bundling out the hosts on 197 runs in the first innings. Shami's five-wicket haul played a massive role in putting India ahead in the game.
The Test match has already lost an entire day of play due to rain and it was important for India to get South Africa all-out as early as possible to go for a result.
"I was just thinking about how good the effort has been, I felt it would be nice if I can get a five-wicket haul. I also reached the 200 wickets landmark in Test cricket, it is a nice and proud feeling. When I took 100 wickets in Tests, I thought I have achieved something, after 200, I am feeling very good and I just hope to keep on performing for the side. The more you enjoy your cricket, performances keep on coming," added Shami who picked up 5 for 44 in the first innings.
(With BCCI.TV Inputs)