Tsotsobe sets new SA ODI record
Lonwabo Tsotsobe became the fastest South African to take 50 ODI wickets with his match performance of three for 51 in the fourth ODI against Sri Lanka in Kimberley on Friday.
Previous holder of the record, Morné Morkel, took 31 matches, while Tsotsobe's 27 matches also made him the eighth quickest in the world.
"I have been working really hard on my bowling during my rehabilitation after my side-strain and I am really happy that my hard work is producing good performances on the field," Tsotsobe said.
"I must say that this record came as a surprise to me, I have just been focusing on hitting the correct lengths and running in with intensity and intent."
Tsotsobe also has an impressive strike rate, which rates amongst the best in the world.
He is the joint leading wicket-taker with nine wickets at an average of 17.00 in the current series against Sri Lanka, with Lasith Malinga the other leading wicket-taker, however, he has a higher average of 18.77.
Proteas bowling coach, Allan Donald, said he was ecstatic with Tsotsobe's performance so far this season.
"The most impressive thing about him is how his skill and confidence have improved over the past years. It's never easy to come back in after a long lay-off and he has made the transition superbly," said Donald.
"He has been fantastic for us in the limited overs format, especially with his clever variations under pressure.
"He has stepped into the new-ball role perfectly, and that says a lot about his ability and skills. He is a valuable asset in our test outfit and he adds and exciting element to our formidable attack which also includes Morné Morkel, Vernon Philander, Dale Steyn and Marchant de Lange."