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Xtra Time Web Desk: Mohammed Shami began his Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a historic milestone, becoming the fastest bowler to claim 200 wickets in men’s one-day internationals (ODIs) in terms of deliveries bowled. Shami achieved the feat during India’s Group A match against Bangladesh in Dubai on Thursday, February 20, surpassing Australia’s Mitchell Starc’s record.

Shami reached the landmark in 104 matches, two more than Starc, but bowled fewer deliveries (5,126) compared to Starc’s 5,240. He also broke Ajit Agarkar’s record to become the fastest Indian bowler to 200 ODI wickets, achieving the milestone in fewer matches than Agarkar’s 133.

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First over, first strike! #MohammadShami takes no time to get India going with a quick breakthrough!

???????? Start watching FREE on JioHotstar: https://t.co/dWSIZFgk0E#ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar ???? #INDvBAN, LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1 & Star Sports 1 Hindi! pic.twitter.com/TlaawDuIwh

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 20, 2025

The senior pacer’s 200th wicket came when he dismissed Jaker Ali, breaking a crucial 154-run partnership between Jaker and Towhid Hridoy. The breakthrough was vital as Bangladesh had recovered from 35 for 5 to pose a threat in the latter stages of the match.

Shami, leading India’s attack in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, showcased his rhythm by taking the wickets of Soumya Sarkar and Mehidy Hasan Miraz early in the innings. His performance was a testament to his resilience after a challenging recovery from injuries.

2⃣0⃣0⃣ wickets and counting!

Mohd. Shami becomes the fastest bowler for India to scalp 200 ODI wickets! ????

Follow the Match ▶️ https://t.co/ggnxmdG0VK#TeamIndia | #BANvIND | #ChampionsTrophy | @MdShami11 pic.twitter.com/CqLyuQPh3X

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 20, 2025

???? SHAMI BECOMES THE FIRST INDIAN PACER TO TAKE FIVE-WICKET HAUL IN CT & WC ???? pic.twitter.com/PpEZVkxhG8

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 20, 2025

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Shami had been out of competitive cricket for over a year following an ankle injury during the 2023 ODI World Cup. A subsequent knee injury further delayed his comeback. Reflecting on his journey, Shami admitted to doubts about his return to the game.

"From being in great form during the World Cup to suddenly finding myself on the operating table, from that form to being injured was really tough. For the first two months, I often doubted whether I would be able to play again as an injury like this followed by a 14-month break can pull you down," Shami said.

Having made his comeback during a white-ball series against England in January, Shami will aim to continue his wicket-taking form as India progresses in the Champions Trophy.

Fastest to 200 ODI Wickets:

1. Mohammed Shami: 5,126 balls (104 matches)

2. Mitchell Starc: 5,240 balls (102 matches)

3. Saqlain Mushtaq: 5,451 balls (104 matches)

4. Brett Lee: 5,640 balls (112 matches)

5. Trent Boult: 5,783 balls (107 matches)

Shami’s record-breaking performance has set the tone for India’s Champions Trophy campaign.