Shaheen
Afridi

Shaheen Afridi is a prominent Pakistani cricketer known for his exceptional left-arm fast bowling and impactful performances for the national team.

Career overview

Since his debut in 2018, he has quickly risen to become one of the leading bowlers in international cricket, earning accolades for his skill and leadership.

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Career honours

1ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year · 2021

1Pakistan Super League Titles · Led Lahore Qalandars to titles in 2022, 2023

2First Pakistani to win Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy · 2021

Records

RYoungest Bowler to take a 5-wicket haul in World Cup · Achieved in 2019.

RBest Bowling Figures in World Cup for Pakistan · 6/35.

Biography

Early Life & Origins

Shaheen Afridi was born on April 6, 2000, in Landi Kotal, Pakistan, into the Zakhakhel Afridi tribe of the Pashtuns. He is the youngest of seven brothers, with his eldest brother Riaz Afridi having played a solitary Test match for Pakistan. Shaheen's cricket journey began locally, where he was introduced to hard-ball cricket by his brother at the FATA Under-16 trials.

Rise to Prominence

Afridi's ascent in cricket was rapid; he made his international debut for Pakistan in T20Is in April 2018 and quickly established himself as a key player. His performances in the 2019 Cricket World Cup, where he became the youngest bowler to take a five-wicket haul in a World Cup match, marked a significant milestone in his career.

Playing Style & Technique

Shaheen Afridi is known for his left-arm fast bowling, utilizing his height to generate bounce and pace. His ability to swing the ball and deliver yorkers makes him a formidable opponent. Afridi's bowling style is often compared to that of legendary Pakistani bowler Wasim Akram, highlighting his potential to dominate in international cricket.

Defining Moments & Achievements

Afridi's career is marked by several defining moments, including his exceptional performance during the 2021 ICC Men's T20 World Cup and his leadership in the Pakistan Super League, where he captained Lahore Qalandars to multiple titles. His recognition as ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year in 2021 further solidified his status in the sport.

Rivalries & Era Context

In the current era of cricket, Afridi has emerged as a key figure in the rivalry between Pakistan and India, often being compared to contemporaries like Jasprit Bumrah. His performances in high-stakes matches have added to the excitement of these encounters, making him a player to watch in international fixtures.

Legacy & Impact

Shaheen Afridi's impact extends beyond the cricket field; he has become a role model for young cricketers in Pakistan. His philanthropic efforts and status as a goodwill ambassador for the KP Police reflect his commitment to giving back to the community, enhancing his legacy as a cricketer and a public figure.

Stats in detail

Batting

Shaheen Afridi has made contributions with the bat across formats, although primarily recognized for his bowling.

Test Runs	256
ODI Runs	277
T20I Runs	345
First-Class Runs	377
Test Batting Average	7.31
ODI Batting Average	13.19
T20I Batting Average	14.37
First-Class Batting Average	8.56