Shaheen Shah Afridi: Pakistan’s Lethal Pace Sensation – Career, Team, and 5 Most Shocking Moments
** **Setting the Scene**
Shaheen Shah Afridi is one of the most electric fast bowlers in modern cricket. Standing at 6'6", the Pakistani left-arm pacer has scared hitters with his raw pace, devastating yorkers, and unplayable swing. Since his debut in 2018, Afridi has become a cornerstone of Pakistan’s bowling assault across all forms.
In this article, we’ll explore: - Shaheen Afridi’s professional trajectory - His current team (Pakistan national cricket team) and squad data - **5 most startling and unforgettable moments** of his career - His effect on Pakistan cricket
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## **Shaheen Afridi’s Cricket Career & Rise to Stardom** Born on **April 6, 2000**, in Khyber Agency, Pakistan, Shaheen Afridi soared through the ranks with his extraordinary pace and height advantage. His breakthrough came in the **2018 U-19 World Cup**, when he ended as the **tournament’s leading wicket-taker (12 wickets in 5 matches)**.
### **International Debut & Career Highlights** - **Test Debut:** December 2018 vs New Zealand - **ODI Debut:** September 2018 vs Afghanistan - **T20I Debut:** April 2018 vs West Indies
**Key Achievements:** - **Youngest Pakistani bowler to achieve a 5-wicket haul in a World Cup (6/35 versus Bangladesh, 2019) ** - **ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year nomination (2021) ** - **Leading wicket-taker in T20 World Cup 2021 (7 wickets in 6 matches)** - **Pace spearhead for Lahore Qalandars in PSL (2022 & 2023 champion)**
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## **Pakistan National Cricket Team: Squad Overview**
Shaheen Afridi is a significant element of the **Pakistan national cricket team**, which comprises of **15-18 players** in important events (varies according on format).
### **Current Key Players (2024) Alongside Shaheen Afridi ** 1. **Babar Azam (Captain, Batsman)** 2. **Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper-Batsman)** 3. **Fakhar Zaman (Explosive Opener)** 4. **Haris Rauf (Fast Bowler)** 5. **Naseem Shah (Fast Bowler)** 6. **Shadab Khan (All-rounder, Vice-Captain)**
Pakistan’s bowling attack largely relies on **Shaheen, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf**, making one of the most frightening pace trios in international cricket.
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## **5 Most Shocking & Memorable Moments of Shaheen Afridi’s Career**
### **1. **6-Wicket Haul versus Bangladesh – 2019 World Cup (June 5, 2019)**
Shaheen revealed himself on the grandest platform with a **devastating 6/35** against Bangladesh at Lord’s. He shredded the batting order with his devastating inswingers and velocity, becoming the **youngest bowler to collect a 5-wicket haul in a World Cup for Pakistan**.
**Why It Was Shocking?** - At barely **19 years old**, he surpassed seasoned hitters.
- His tenure includes the wickets of **Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Mahmudullah**.
### **2. **Hat-Trick versus Bangladesh – T20 World Cup 2021 (November 5, 2021)**
In a must-win game, Afridi produced a **sensational last-over hat-trick** (first by a Pakistani in T20 World Cup history). He dismissed **Shakib Al Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman, and Shoriful Islam** in consecutive balls to complete a thrilling victory.
**Why It Was Shocking?** - Pakistan was defending a modest **127 runs**.
- The hat-trick came under immense pressure, showcasing his **big-match temperament**.
### **3. **Injury in T20 World Cup 2022 Final – Heartbreak against England (November 13, 2022)**
Pakistan reached the **T20 World Cup 2022 final**, but tragedy struck when **Shaheen damaged his knee** while taking a catch. He had to leave the field mid-over, and England profited, winning the match.
**Why It Was Shocking?** - His injury **changed the momentum** of the final.
- Fans and analysts questioned Pakistan’s **decision to risk him** despite fitness concerns.
### **4. **Yorker to Dismiss KL Rahul – T20 World Cup 2021 (October 24, 2021)**
In a high-voltage India versus Pakistan encounter, Shaheen delivered a **brilliant inswinging yorker** to dismiss KL Rahul for **3 runs**. This set the tone for Pakistan’s historic **10-wicket win** over India.
**Why It Was Shocking?** - It was Pakistan’s **first-ever World Cup triumph versus India**.
- The dismissal went viral as one of the **best yorkers in T20 history**.
### **5. **Return from Injury & 4-Wicket Haul versus New Zealand – 2023 ODI World Cup (November 4, 2023)**
After a long injury layoff, Shaheen made a blazing comeback with **4/22** against New Zealand in Bengaluru. His stint included the **wickets of Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell**, indicating he was back at his best.
**Why It Was Shocking?** - Many worried if he could regain his previous form post-injury.
- His performance hushed doubters and **reaffirmed his standing as Pakistan’s bowling kingpin**.
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## **Conclusion: Shaheen Afridi’s Future & Legacy**
Shaheen Shah Afridi is already a **Pakistani legend** at just **24 years old**. With his devastating speed, swing, and match-winning powers, he is likely to rule international cricket for years. Whether it’s his **fiery spells, hat-tricks, or sad injuries**, every minute of his career puts fans on the edge.
As he continues to spearhead Pakistan’s bowling attack, the world anticipates more **unforgettable moments** from this speed phenomenon.
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