Shami becomes fastest to 200 ODI wickets in Champions Trophy 2025, breaks Starc’s record

Mohammed Shami made history in the Champions Trophy 2025, becoming the fastest bowler in the world to claim 200 ODI wickets in terms of balls bowled. The Indian pacer achieved the milestone in 5,126 deliveries, surpassing Mitchell Starc’s record, during India’s opening match against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium.

Shami reached the landmark by dismissing Jaker Ali in the 43rd over, outfoxing him with a cleverly disguised slower delivery. The mistimed shot landed safely in Virat Kohli’s hands at long-on, making it a moment to remember. The veteran pacer also became the fastest Indian to 200 ODI wickets in terms of matches, completing the feat in 104 ODIs, breaking the previous Indian record held by Ajit Agarkar (133 matches).

With this achievement, Shami equaled Pakistan legend Saqlain Mushtaq as the joint second-fastest bowler in history to reach the 200-wicket mark in ODIs. The only bowler ahead of him in terms of matches played is Australia’s Mitchell Starc, who took 102 ODIs to achieve the feat.

Shami’s form and fitness had been a talking point leading into the tournament, especially since he had played just four matches (two ODIs and two T20Is) between the 2023 World Cup final and the Champions Trophy. However, he delivered a stellar performance, picking up 5 wickets for 53 runs in his 10-over spell, proving his worth as India’s pace spearhead.

The 34-year-old pacer struck early, dismissing Bangladesh opener Soumya Sarkar in his very first over. After bowling a series of tight deliveries, Shami pitched one fuller, inducing an inside edge that KL Rahul caught behind. He then removed Mehidy Hasan Miraz with a rising delivery that took the outside edge, which was brilliantly snapped up by Shubman Gill at slip.

With his five-wicket haul, Shami further solidified his reputation as a big-game player in ICC events. He now has 60 wickets in ODI World Cups and Champions Trophy matches, surpassing Zaheer Khan’s record (59 wickets) to become the highest wicket-taker for India in these tournaments.

In all ICC events, including the T20 World Cup, Shami has amassed 73 wickets, the most by any Indian bowler. His ability to strike in the powerplay remains unmatched, as he now has 20 wickets in the first 10 overs of ICC 50-over tournaments since 2015, boasting the best strike rate among all bowlers in that period.

With Jasprit Bumrah unavailable, Shami has stepped up as India’s leader in the pace department. His record-breaking spell set the tone for India’s Champions Trophy campaign, and his ability to pick wickets in crucial moments will be vital for the team's success. If he continues this form, India will have a strong chance of reclaiming the Champions Trophy title.