Shaheen Afridi Player Profile, Age, Career, Bowling & Batting Stats

Shaheen Afridi, often dubbed as the "Spectacular Speedster," by Pakistan fans, has emerged as a crucial figure in current Pakistan cricket. He is celebrated for his prowess as a formidable left-arm pacer.

Since making his debut on the national side in 2018, Afridi has risen to become one of Pakistan's premier bowlers across all formats, consistently clocking speeds at 150-plus kmph.

Early Life and Background

Afridi was born on April 6, 2000, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. He immersed himself in cricket from a young age. Raised in a cricket-centric family, he found early guidance and inspiration from his elder brother, Riaz Afridi, who had a short career in Pakistani cricket.

Under the mentorship of his brother and other mentors, Afridi's talent with the pace attack began to flourish, setting him on a track towards professional cricket.

His big moment came in 2015 when Shaheen Shah Afridi was selected for the Pakistan Under-16 team, marking his first foray into international cricket.

His performance during one of his first Australia tours showcased his raw talent and set the foundation for his rise in the ranks in Pakistan's cricket.

International Career 

Shaheen Shah Afridi made his international debut in April 2018 with a T20I match against the West Indies. His immediate impact and ability to consistently trouble batsmen with his pace soon saw him don the green jersey in ODIs and Test matches the same year.

Known for his ability to generate steep bounce and deliver precise yorkers, Afridi swiftly became a leader of Pakistan's bowling attack.

By 2021, Afridi had firmly established himself as a match-winner. His performance in the T20 World Cup 2021 that year, including a pivotal three-wicket haul against arch-rivals India, gave him a lot of popularity among Indian fans.

His influential contributions to Pakistan's historic victory in the tournament showcased his ability to perform under pressure on the global stage. However, in the same tournament, he was hit for three sixes in the semi-final against Australia which led the way for Pakistan's ouster from the tournament.

Pakistan Leadership 

Shaheen Afridi's leadership qualities came to the front when he was appointed captain of the Pakistan T20I team in 2024 for a brief period.

However, Pakistan lost the T20I series to New Zealand 4-1 and he was replaced by Babar Azam. Despite challenges, Afridi's commitment to leading from the front and inspiring his teammates was enjoyed by all.

Domestic and League Cricket

In addition to his national duties, Afridi has been a successful member of Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). He has consistently dazzled fans and critics alike with his performances. Under his captaincy, Lahore Qalandars secured the title in both the 2022 and 2023 seasons, further developing his reputation as a leader and match-winner in franchise cricket.

Afridi's impact is beyond Pakistani cricket as he is also known for his stints in English County Cricket. Representing clubs such as Nottinghamshire, Middlesex, and Hampshire, Afridi has seized the opportunity to showcase his skills in different conditions on foreign soil.

Legacy and Future

As Afridi continues to evolve as a cricketer, his journey serves as an inspiration to countless young Pakisatan players dreaming of donning their national colors.

With over 100 wickets each in ODIs and Tests, Afridi's statistics reveal his impact as a match-winner across all formats. With youth on his side and a hunger for success, Afridi is poised to establish a lasting legacy in Pakistan cricket and beyond, ensuring his name remains synonymous with excellence.

In conclusion, Shaheen Afridi's story is one of talent, resilience, and leadership—a testimony to the transformative power of cricket in shaping lives and inspiring generations.