In the world of cricket, there are moments that redefine a player’s career, and for Mohammed Shami, one such moment came on a bright Friday against Australia. Shami’s exceptional performance in the opening game of the three-match ODI series not only earned him accolades but also a significant milestone in his career. He surpassed the legendary Ajit Agarkar to become the second Indian bowler with the most wickets against Australia in ODI cricket.
In a high-stakes encounter against Australia, Mohammed Shami exhibited his prowess as a fast bowler. He claimed a remarkable five wickets while conceding just 51 runs. Shami’s precise and fiery deliveries dismantled the Australian batting lineup, and his performance played a pivotal role in India’s victory.
Also Read: ICC Cricket World Cup 2023: Prize Pool Distribution, Format and Everything You Need to Know
Early success for #TeamIndia!
A wicket for @MdShami11 as Shubman Gill takes the catch.
Australia lose Mitchell Marsh.
Live – https://t.co/F3rj8GI20u… #INDvAUS@IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/cNcwJeQiXN
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 22, 2023
Mohammed Shami Record-Breaking Wickets
- Mohammed Shami scalped a 5-wicket haul in the opening ODI against Australia.
- He took his tally of wickets against Australia to 37.
- This achievement places him firmly in the second position, behind the legendary Kapil Dev.
- Kapil Dev tops the chart with 45 scalps.
- Ajit Agarkar stands at the third spot with 36 wickets, followed by Javagal Srinath (33) and Harbhajan Singh (32).
Mohammed Shami’s figure of 5/51 against Australia was not only a personal milestone but also the third-best bowling spell by an Indian bowler against Australia. The top spot in this category is held by Kapil Dev, who had a stellar performance in 1983 at Trent Bridge, with figures of 5/43.
IND vs AUS 1st ODI
The clash between India and Australia in the first ODI at Mohali was nothing short of a cricketing spectacle. Australia, batting first, posted a competitive total of 276 in their 50 overs. Key contributions came from David Warner (52), Josh Inglis (45), Steven Smith (41), and Marnus Labuschagne (39).
Mohammed Shami, with his exceptional bowling, was the standout performer for India, finishing with figures of 5/51. Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Jasprit Bumrah each contributed with a wicket.
For his brilliant bowling figures of 5/51, @MdShami11 is adjudged Player of the Match as #TeamIndia win by 5 wickets.
Take a 1-0 lead in the three match ODI series.
Scorecard – https://t.co/H6OgLtww4N…… #INDvAUS@IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/gIZJFkWj2L
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 22, 2023
While chasing 277, a century partnership between openers Shubman Gill and Ruturaj Gaikwad set the stage for India’s victory. Gill scored a gritty 74 off 63 balls, while Gaikwad contributed a vital 71 off 77 balls. Their partnership proved to be the cornerstone of India’s successful chase.
Adding to the excitement, skipper KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav played crucial roles, with Rahul remaining unbeaten at 58* and Yadav scoring a well-deserved half-century with 50 runs. India eventually clinched a thrilling victory with five wickets to spare and eight balls remaining.
With this thrilling victory, India took a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against Australia. Mohammed Shami’s exceptional performance in the opening ODI against Australia not only secured a vital win for India but also cemented his position as one of India’s most formidable fast bowlers.

