Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib al Hasan made history on Saturday, June 22, by becoming the first bowler to take 50 wickets in T20 World Cup history. He achieved this milestone during the Super 8 clash against India at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua. The 37-year-old veteran reached this landmark by dismissing Indian captain Rohit Sharma in his second over.
Shakib’s start to the match was challenging, with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli scoring 15 runs off his first over. His second over also started unfavorably, as Rohit hit him for a six and a boundary. However, Shakib managed to turn the tide by getting Rohit out for 23 runs off 11 balls, thanks to a leading edge that was caught by the fielder at point. This dismissal not only got rid of the Indian skipper but also brought Shakib his 50th wicket in T20 World Cup history, making him the first player to reach this feat.
Shakib’s record in T20 World Cups is impressive, with 50 wickets from 40 innings at an average of 19.50 and an economy rate of 6.89. He has also achieved three four-wicket hauls in the tournament’s history. Alongside Rohit Sharma, Shakib is one of the few players to have participated in all nine editions of the T20 World Cup.
In addition to his bowling achievements, Shakib has made significant contributions with the bat, scoring 842 runs from 41 innings at an average of 24.05 and a strike rate of 119.94, including four half-centuries. Despite his historical achievement, Shakib has struggled in the current tournament, scoring 100 runs and taking three wickets from five matches. Nonetheless, he remains a key player for Bangladesh, striving to deliver impactful performances to keep his team in contention.