About a couple of days back, lightning had struck the Sher-e-Bangla stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka, with the cricketing faithful, particularly if they are South African, being left awe-struck, albeit pleasantly.
Yes, the effect was so devastating on all the batters as one of the finest fast bowlers of his generation, Kagiso Rabada, amassed 300 Test wickets, the fastest to do so in all of 11,817 deliveries—785 balls quicker than the next in line, Pakistani legend, Waqar Younis.
The backbone of the Proteas pace attack reached this feat as he castled the off and middle stump of possibly one of the best batters in the Bangladesh lineup, Mushfiqur Rahim, in the ongoing first Test between South Africa and Bangladesh.
Perhaps such was the occasion as this event unfolded, that this Bangla great was left flabbergasted, falling prey to the mighty South Africa with his expression being one of complete bemusement.
Well, one wouldn’t blame him, as Rabada has the knack of making batters question what just hit them once they are left reeling at the crease.
Such are the bolts on offer.
Having said this, the feat not only made Rabada the fastest to reach 300 wickets but also put him in the numero uno position in terms of strike rates for this coveted achievement at all of 39.
What does this mean?
Well, KG picks up a wicket every 39 balls in the red-ball game, making him the best amongst all pace bowlers not only of his generation but of all time.
Let that sink in!
What makes both these accomplishments even more special is that Rabada, for the large part of his career, has only played series of two Tests, which makes it even more difficult to attain brilliance compared to other nations, particularly the big three, who at least get three Tests if not more per series.
Fewer matches mean fewer opportunities to bowl, which adds more sheen to the way this lad has made the most of what’s on offer.
With such deserving accolades being showered on this lean and mean bowler, he undoubtedly deserves them, and one would hope his exploits continue to make him a force to reckon with, not only at an individual level but also for his country.
Truth be told, God knows how much the Proteas need to up their game and fortunes to become a force to reckon with in the red-ball game. Again.
And the role Rabada needs to play in that journey is of vital significance.
Kagiso, as you soar to newer peaks, the cricketing faithful and pundits alike are nothing but proud of you.
So, keep going and make this cricketing world your oyster!