Boucher notches up another milestone, claims 550th dismissal

Johannesburg: South Africa’s Mark Boucher became the first ever wicket keeper to claim 550 dismissals in Test cricket, as he achieved this magnificent milestone during the second Test match against the Kiwis in Hamilton. Boucher now has taken 551 dismissals with 528 catches and 23 stumpings, which is 145 more than Adam Gilchrist`s 416 and Ian Healy`s 395, who are second and third on the all-time wicket keepers’ list. He took five catches in the Proteas` resounding nine-wicket win at Seddon Park to reach the 550 landmark, one he says is special to him. “Reaching 550 dismissals is a special milestone for me. I always strive to give the best for the team and to help us win matches and, if I can do that while breaking career milestones, it`s an added bonus for me,” Sports24 quoted Boucher, as saying. “It`s difficult to single out a particular or memorable dismissal after 15 years of international cricket, they have all played a small part of a bigger picture for the Proteas. I only hope that I can continue playing that part behind the stumps,” he added. South Africa Test captain Graeme Smith also lauded Boucher`s achievement, and said his credentials remain world-class. “Mark has been an unheralded servant of South African cricket and he deserves every milestone that he reaches,” said Smith. “His dedication and contribution as a sportsman in the South African cricket team has been invaluable over the years,” he added. ANI