India are yet to face defeat in the 2023 World Cup, and their most significant challenge came on the league stage against South Africa at the challenging Eden Gardens. In a remarkable display, the Indian bowlers dismantled the South African batting lineup, securing a historic 243-run victory that extended their unbeaten run in the tournament.

Mohammed Shami, a crucial figure in India’s successful second phase of the league stage, didn’t hold back in his assessment of South Africa following this resounding win.

Before the match, India’s bowling unit faced a stern test, especially after Hardik Pandya’s unfortunate ankle injury ruled him out of the remainder of the World Cup. South Africa have been relentless against their opposition’s bowling attacks, consistently scoring 350 or more in four out of their seven matches, including a tournament-high 428 for five. With the likes of Quinton de Kock, David Miller, and Heinrich Klaasen in superb form, South Africa appeared a formidable batting lineup.

However, when facing India, South Africa’s batting order crumbled dramatically, primarily due to Ravindra Jadeja’s five-wicket haul. They were bowled out for a mere 83 runs in just 27.1 overs, with Marco Jansen batting at No. 7, being the top scorer with a 30-ball 14.

After the astonishing win, Mohammad Kaif, a former Indian cricketer on the Star Sports panel, playfully asked Shami about the competition level, saying,

“You beat Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Where will we get a new team now, from the moon?”

It’s worth noting that besides South Africa, India has also defeated three other teams that have scored 350 or more at least once in this World Cup – Australia (3), New Zealand (2), and England (1).

Shami responded with his trademark bluntness, saying,

“Har baar 400 paar karne waalon ka haal dekho” (Look at the condition of the team that consistently scores over 400 runs).”

With two wickets in just four overs against South Africa, Shami added to his tally of 14 wickets in four appearances in this World Cup, including two five-wicket hauls. He now stands as India’s top wicket-taker in the tournament’s history.