January 2018. Johannesburg. India trailing 0-2 in a tough Test series against South Africa. The Wanderers Stadium, famous for its challenging field and lively conditions, was ready for an exciting match. And it got one—thanks to Mohammed Shami.
What happened next was a series of fast bowling moves that not only helped India win the match but also showed that Shami was one of the best.
What Was The Situation?
After losing the first two Tests, India went into the third Test with a lot of pressure. They had already lost the series, but the game was still on. The Wanderers’ field was green and bouncy, great for bowlers—but difficult for batters.
India batted first and scored a strong total. But when South Africa started their chase, one man made a big move that changed the game.
Shami’s Excited Bowling
Mohammed Shami was in no mood to hold back. With the ball in his hand, he put on a show that had South Africa’s batters confused and the fans excited.
- Early Breakthroughs:
- Shami started strong, removing the dangerous South African openers. His ability to move the ball both ways kept the batsmen guessing, and his speed didn’t give them any chance to make mistakes.
- Markram’s Wicket:
- Aiden Markram, who is known for his strong batting skills, was caught off guard by a fastball. He was out LBW, and as he walked off, Shami celebrated a big win.
- Lower-Order Collapse:
- Just when South Africa hoped their lower-order batters would fight back, Shami came back even stronger. He quickly dismissed Quinton de Kock and Kagiso Rabada, ending the innings with only 194 runs.
Five wickets. Just 28 runs. A truly magical performance.
The Game-Changing Impact
India, thanks to Shami’s great performance, took a big advantage in the game. The bowlers, with Shami leading them, didn’t just win the game—they showed that this Indian team could be the best anywhere, even on the hardest playing fields.
India finally won by 63 runs, a win that proved how strong and determined they were.
A Legacy Defined
Shami’s performance at Johannesburg isn’t just a part of cricket history—it’s a lesson in determination. On a difficult pitch that tested every player, he stood out as a star. His skill in making the ball swing, getting it to bounce, and delivering under pressure showcased why he is one of India’s top fast bowlers.
This Test wasn’t just about a win; it was about proving a point. Mohammed Shami took the lead, and Indian cricket fans deeply remember his performance.
As fans, we’ll always cherish the cheers from the Wanderers crowd, the way Shami bowled, and the joy of an Indian win in South Africa.
