Shahnawaz Dahani: The Rising Star of Pakistani Cricket – Career, Team, and 5 Unforgettable Moments
** **Setting the Scene**
Shahnawaz Dahani has developed as one of Pakistan’s most promising fast-bowling stars in recent years. Known for his raw speed, contagious energy, and joyful exuberance, Dahani has rapidly become a fan favorite. This blog analyzes his path, his team (Pakistan and local sides), squad data, and five of his most **memorable and startling moments** that have marked his brief career.
---
## **Who Is Shahnawaz Dahani?
** Born on **August 5, 1998**, in **Larkana, Sindh**, Dahani climbed from poor beginnings to become a professional cricketer. His breakthrough came in the **2021 Pakistan Super League (PSL)**, when he ended as the **highest wicket-taker** (20 wickets) for **Multan Sultans**, helping them win their maiden title.
### **Teams He Represents** - **Pakistan National Cricket Team** (ODIs & T20Is) - **Multan Sultans** (PSL) - **Sindh** (Domestic Cricket) - **Galle Gladiators** (LPL)
### **How Many Players Are on His Teams? ** - **Pakistan National Team:** Typically **15-18 players** in limited-overs squads.
- **Multan Sultans (PSL):** **20-player squad** (including local and international players).
- **Sindh (Domestic):** **16-18 players** in first-class and List-A teams.
---
## **5 Most Memorable & Shocking Moments of Shahnawaz Dahani’s Career**
### **1. PSL 2021: Emerging as the Highest Wicket-Taker (A Star Is Born)** **Details:** Dahani was largely unknown before **PSL 2021**, but his **express pace and aggressive bowling** startled batters. He got **20 wickets in 11 matches**, including a **4-wicket haul against Quetta Gladiators**. His scorching performance in the **final versus Peshawar Zalmi** (2/25) helped Multan Sultans secure their first-ever PSL championship.
**Why Shocking?** No one anticipated a **rookie fast bowler** to dominate a competition studded with international players. His **celebration style** (running madly after wickets) also became viral.
---
### **2. T20I Debut Against West Indies (2021) – A Dream Start** **Details:** Dahani made his **T20I debut for Pakistan** in December 2021 against the West Indies. He took **1/26** in his first game, but his **energy and aggression** shone out. His **first international wicket** was **Shai Hope**, bowled with a **145kph+ delivery**.
**Why Memorable?**
- Came from a **small village** with no appropriate cricket facilities. - Proved that **raw talent and hard work** can break into the national team.
---
### **3. PSL 2022: The Infamous No-Ball Incident (Heartbreak Against Lahore Qalandars)** **Details: ** In a **crucial PSL 2022 match**, Dahani defended **12 runs in the last over** against Lahore Qalandars. With **2 runs needed off the final ball**, he bowled a **perfect yorker** to get the batsman out—only for the **umpire to call a no-ball** for **overstepping**. Lahore won off the free hit, destroying Multan’s hopes.
**Why Shocking?** - One of the **most sad moments** in PSL history.
- Dahani was **in tears** after the match, displaying his enthusiasm for the game.
---
### **4. The Celebration That Broke the Internet (PSL 2021)** **Details:**
After getting a wicket against **Karachi Kings**, Dahani **sprinted halfway across the field**, leaped, and yelled in excitement. The footage went **viral globally**, with supporters comparing him to **celebrations of football players**.
**Why Memorable?**
- Showed his **unfiltered passion** for cricket.
- Became his **trademark celebration**, making him a **fan favorite**.
---
### **5. Injury Scare & Comeback (2023 – The Struggle)** **Details:** After a **stellar PSL 2022**, Dahani sustained a **side strain** that kept him out of cricket for months. Many believed his **career could decline**, but he made a **strong comeback** in **PSL 2023**, taking important wickets.
**Why Shocking?** - Proved his **resilience** after a huge setback.
- Showed that **pace bowlers in Pakistan** typically encounter injury issues but may bounce back.
---
## **Conclusion: The Future of Shahnawaz Dahani** Dahani’s path from a **small-town youngster to a Pakistani cricket sensation** is remarkable. With his **pace, enthusiasm, and never-give-up attitude**, he has the potential to become Pakistan’s **next great fast bowler**.
Will he spearhead Pakistan’s onslaught in **World Cups**? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—**Dahani’s story is far from over!**
---
Would you like any revisions or extra details? Let me know! 🚀