The Big Bash League has a vibrant history of embracing colourful characters, and it appears the competition has discovered its next cult hero. South African international spinner Tabraiz Shamsi made an unforgettable debut for the Adelaide Strikers, captivating fans not just with his bowling but with a now-iconic celebration that has set the tournament abuzz.
A Winning Debut Despite Team Defeat
In a strategic move, the Adelaide Strikers brought the 35-year-old left-arm wrist-spinner into their lineup one game early. Their plan was to deploy an all-out spin attack against the formidable Perth Scorchers at Optus Stadium on Sunday. While the Strikers ultimately fell short of victory, Shamsi's individual performance was a clear triumph for the club.
The Proteas star delivered an impressive spell of 3-30 from his four overs, claiming the crucial wickets of Australian T20 captain Mitch Marsh, emerging talent Cooper Connolly, and Scorchers skipper Ashton Turner. His intervention broke a dangerous 72-run opening stand, immediately justifying his selection and showcasing his world-class skill.
The 'Shoe Phone' Celebration That Broke the Internet
However, it was the moment after dismissing Mitch Marsh that truly captured the imagination of the BBL audience. After the catch was taken, Shamsi celebrated with teammates before theatrically removing his left shoe. He then held it to his ear, mimicking a phone call to an unseen official.
Post-match, Shamsi was quick to clarify the meaning behind his unique routine. "Sometimes when you take a wicket, the umpire checks with the third umpire whether it’s out or not out," he explained. "That’s just me after a wicket phoning the third umpire to confirm if it’s out or not out."
He emphasised that the act was not a send-off for the batter but a light-hearted query to the video official. "There are a lot of misconceptions... but it’s absolutely not that. I never look at the batter, it’s just me phoning the third umpire to check," Shamsi stated.
A Pre-Arranged Call With a Mate in the Commentary Box
The celebration took on an extra layer of entertainment thanks to a pre-game pact with Strikers teammate Tim David. The powerhouse batter, who was commentating for Channel 7 while recovering from a hamstring injury, had played with Shamsi in the Caribbean Premier League.
"I met him before the game, and he said, 'Listen, I’m going to be up there, when you take a wicket, I need you to call me, and I’m going to take my shoe off,'" Shamsi revealed. True to his word, when Shamsi made his 'call', David pretended to answer on his own shoe live on national broadcast, creating a hilarious moment of shared comedy.
Embracing the Big Bash Spirit
For Shamsi, who has now played in ten different T20 leagues and for 17 franchises, finally appearing in the BBL was a long-held ambition. "I suppose that’s what the Big Bash is about. It’s about entertainment," he said. "Looking at it from the outside, it’s always been a competition that looks amazing... I’ve always wanted to be a part of it."
He also addressed his reputation for on-field passion, which has sometimes led to clashes with Australian players. "I’ve had a few run-ins with Australian boys on the field, but that’s just passion... I play the same way the Aussie boys play with aggression on the field," Shamsi noted. "But the nice thing is that once the game is done, we can give each other a hug or handshake, and we move on."
Ultimately, the veteran spinner expressed his sheer enjoyment at performing in front of large, energetic Australian crowds. His successful debut, marked by both skill and showmanship, suggests the Big Bash League has indeed found a perfect new entertainer to capture the hearts and imaginations of fans across the country.
