OTD| South Africa’s pace legend Shaun Pollock was born in 1973

Shaun Maclean Pollock, a former right-handed pacer who has played for South Africa and is recognised as one of the great all-rounders in the history of cricket. The right-handed batter had earned his ODI debut in Cape Town, where he played against England, whereas the dashing batter appeared in his Test debut at Centurion in 1995 against England. Notably, during his active career, the former South African cricketer was awarded various awards and honours.

As the legend celebrates his birthday, we will embark on his glory. After making an excellent start, Pollock caught the world’s attention in 1998, during which the right-arm bowler bagged 69 wickets in 14 Test matches, resulting in career-best figures of 7/87. Notably, in 2000, the great all-rounder received the charge of leading a Test team. The star pacer took his first 10-wicket haul during this time, against India in 2001–2002, and, unlike many former captains, he continually enhanced the role of skipper, which played a great role in making his country successful.

As the former South African cricketer turned commentator legend turns 50 today, we will look here for his accomplishments. Notably, between 2000 and 2003, Pollock played the role of the South African cricket team’s skipper and displayed magnificent performances. Furthermore, the great legend was presented with the “Wisden Cricketer of the Year” title in 2003. While boasting 400 test wickets and 3700 test runs in 108 test matches, he was one of the most successful South African cricketers. In addition, Pollock also put-up spectacular displays as an integral part of the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League in 2008.

Speaking about his retirement, the great pacer proceeded to have challenges with form and injury after 2006, which eventually led him to declare his retirement from Test cricket midway through a series against the West Indies. During the following series, he confirmed his retirement from ODI cricket. Notably, after enjoying 13 years of playing international cricket, the 50-year-old cricketer announced his retirement in 2008 at the age of 35. On top of that, only Pollock has achieved the feat of scoring 3,000 runs while capturing 700 wickets, including both Tests and ODIs.