Profile of Mark Boucher

Full Name: Mark Verdon Boucher

Born: December 3, 1976 in Cape Province, South Africa

Batting Style Right-handed wicketkeeper batsman

Bowling Style Right-arm medium

Test Debut Pakistan vs. South Africa at Sheikhupura – October 17-21, 1997

ODI Debut New Zealand vs. South Africa at Perth – January 16, 1998

South Africa’s rise in international cricket is unthinkable without the presence of the inimitable Mark Boucher. A wicketkeeper-batsman par excellence, Boucher has shot to fame within no time, because of his matchless skills and zest for the game of cricket.

After Dave Richardson’s retirement from international cricket, Mark Boucher was included in the national side as his replacement. The shoes he had to fit in were too big for him. But, Boucher did not disappoint the selectors. He proved his mettle as a ‘keeper and batsman from the word Go. Over the years, he has become an indispensable part of the South African team.

A middle order batsman, who usually comes in at Number Five or Six, Mark Boucher is adept at clever strokeplay and is capable of stunning the best of bowling attacks. Apart from a few exceptions, consistency has been Boucher’s forte. He has taken to situations like fish to water. He has displayed exemplary pinch hitting in case of urgencies, and has also played consolidated innings when asked to. It is this adaptability that makes him an asset and a key player in South African team.

Mark Boucher has been selected in the South African World Cup squad to tour West Indies for the ninth edition of this world championship. Being one of the senior members in the team, he will have to play the role of a motivator and lead by example. His chirpiness and encouragement from behind the wickets will prompt South African bowlers into giving their best.

Mark Boucher’s career statistics make an interesting case study. In 263 ODIs, he has scored more than 4,098 runs at a strike-rate of 84. He has taken 368 catches and 18 stumpings. In 111 Tests, Mark Boucher has made more than 4,098 runs and taken 406 catches behind the wickets and 19 stumpings.

South African World Cup squad

key player in South African team.