In 2003, Saleem Mukuddem passed Charlie Marshall’s Cup Match record for the highest individual score by a colt. And the very next year Somerset’s first innings declaration left the Leg Trappers-bound all-rounder just shy of Janeiro Tucker’s Cup Match record (186) for the highest individual score set in 2001 at Wellington Oval.

Since then Mukuddem has continued to rewrite the history books, both domestically and internationally. And so it came as no real surprise when the veteran cricketer became the first Bermuda bowler to take a wicket in the World Cup when he combined with OJ Pitcher to dismiss prolific Sri Lankan batsman Sanath Jayasuriya in the ninth over.

“From watching Jayasuriya on TV I know he’s a really explosive batsman who can ruin one’s confidence and bowling figures on any given day. But I was glad to keep the ball in the right spots on a good line and length from the start,” Mukuddem said yesterday.

“This got me in an early groove and the delivery that he (Jayasuriya) did go after I thought was a bit wide. It moved a slight bit away from him and he pushed at it and got caught at point.” It was a moment Mukuddem will long cherish.

“I know a few Sri Lankans and so I will be sending some e-mails to them. My family watched the game back in South Africa and they are all very happy and proud,” he said.

“My dad also said his phone has been ringing off the hook at home with people calling to lend their support and tell him they saw me on TV.” Mukuddem finished with two wickets for 52 runs off ten overs to lead Bermuda’s bowling attack on the same ground where he claimed his first ODI wicket against Canada ten months ago.

He explained: “My plan all along was to concede no more than five runs per over. And if I picked up one or two wickets I would’ve been very happy.”