Ind vs Aus: Mohammad Shami’s fifer puts him in the records book

In a thrilling encounter between India and Australia in the 1st ODI, Mohammad Shami’s outstanding performance with the ball and Josh Inglis’ impressive innings took center stage. The match, held in conditions of scorching heat, showcased the resilience of both teams on the field.

Australia set a target of 277 runs after the first innings, and their journey was marked by several ups and downs. The early loss of Mitch Marsh in the very first over seemed to give India an advantage. However, David Warner and Steve Smith’s partnership revived Australia’s hopes. Warner, aided by a dropped catch by Shreyas Iyer, reached his half-century but was eventually dismissed while trying to attack the spinners.

Steve Smith, too, looked promising but fell victim to a brilliant delivery from Mohammad Shami. Marnus Labuschagne’s dismissal, stumped off a delivery that deflected off KL Rahul’s pads onto the stumps, was a stroke of luck for India. Despite multiple starts in the top order, Australia couldn’t capitalize as India kept fighting back.

Josh Inglis emerged as a standout performer for Australia, scoring a valuable 45 runs before falling victim to a well-disguised Jasprit Bumrah slower ball. Inglis’ contribution was crucial in pushing Australia towards a competitive total.

Shami in records book

The highlight of the day, however, was Mohammad Shami’s sensational bowling performance. He returned to the pitch at the death and claimed three wickets to complete a memorable five-wicket haul. Shami’s ability to mix up variations and consistently hit the right areas was instrumental in putting the brakes on Australia’s scoring in the final overs.

Shami becomes the first Indian pacer to take a five-wicket haul in India in ODI after 16 long years.

Shami spoke during the mid innings break.

“Very happy, enjoy the company of Siraj a lot. It’s important to bowl in the right areas and set the tone. Yes, it was hot out here. There wasn’t much out of the wicket so the only option was to bowl good lengths and mix-up your variations. Feels good when you put in the effort and get wickets, it’s good for the team and for your confidence.”

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