India’s cricket team secured an astounding 243-run victory over South Africa at the Eden Gardens, maintaining their flawless record in the 2023 World Cup. Following this resounding success, veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami, a linchpin in India’s recent success, unleashed a scathing critique aimed squarely at the beleaguered South African side.
India’s bowlers, brimming with confidence, left the South African batting lineup bewildered on the challenging Eden Gardens pitch. This encounter, anticipated as India’s ultimate test, was even more daunting after Hardik Pandya’s departure due to an ankle injury. South Africa had consistently demonstrated their ruthless prowess, scoring 350 or more in four of their previous seven matches, even reaching a colossal 428 for five, the highest total in the tournament. Notably, Quinton de Kock, a formidable opener, had already amassed four centuries, while middle-order stalwarts David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen wreaked havoc.
However, India’s bowlers dismantled South Africa, reducing them to a mere 83 runs in 27.1 overs. Ravindra Jadeja was the chief tormentor with a stunning five-wicket haul, and Marco Jansen managed to score just 14 runs off 30 balls, emerging as the top-scorer for South Africa.
Following this momentous win, former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif, part of the Star Sports panel, couldn’t help but express his amazement, asking Shami, “You’ve conquered Australia, New Zealand, and now South Africa. Where do we find another worthy opponent, perhaps on the moon?” It’s worth noting that apart from South Africa, India has vanquished three other teams that have breached the 350-run mark in this World Cup – Australia (3 times), New Zealand (2 times), and England (1 time).
In response to Kaif’s inquiry, Shami delivered a biting retort, saying, “Har baar 400 paar karne waalon ka haal dekho,” which translates to “Look at the condition of the team that has been scoring 400 runs often.”
Shami’s exceptional performance on the field, including taking two crucial wickets in just four overs against South Africa, has catapulted him to a total of 14 wickets in four World Cup appearances. This impressive tally features two extraordinary five-wicket hauls, propelling him to the summit of India’s all-time wicket-takers in World Cup history.
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