ICC World Cup 2019 | Knew it will be a shock, says Imran Tahir on bowling first over in tournament opener

Imran Tahir left the spectators and commentators in shock when he opened the bowling attack for South Africa against England at Kennington Oval. He picked Jonny Bairstow’s wicket for a duck in what was the second ball of the match and also became the first spinner in history to bowl the first ball of a World Cup. The leg-spinner reckoned that it was a well-thought plan.

“It was a plan which I had been working on for the last year or so, so I think we knew that it was going to be pretty much a shock for everybody. But it was great challenge bowling against two top players in world cricket. I was just really pleased the way I came out and I got a wicket for the team and that was our plan which worked,” he said, reported ICC Media.

The surprise tactic was the moment of an otherwise poor match for South Africa. The team was wrapped up for just 207 runs in reply to the hosts’ 311. However, the Lahore born player mentioned that he is ready to bowl in a similar position again.

“Whenever I get an opportunity again like that, you know, I won’t be the guy who is saying, no to my captain, because I like challenges. I like to think that my captain can give me a ball in any situation and I will be the first guy to say yes,” the 40-year-old asserted.

After playing for the Pakistan Under-19 team, Tahir shifted to South Africa and went on to make his debut for the side in the 2011 World Cup. Today’s game against Bangladesh will be the leg-spinner’s 100th ODI and he feels absolutely privileged about the same.

“It feels really special. I played my first game at the 2011 World Cup and it’s been an amazing journey. I always dreamt that, but I never thought I will be here one day playing my 100th game for South Africa, so it’s an absolute honour and a privilege being given the opportunity.

“I’m just really grateful to everybody, and I hope that I gave everything that I could for the country,” he signed off.